Is your block heater actually working?

[gitrdun]

When I plug in my Silverado diesel, I can actually hear the block heater warming up. On my Toyota 4Runner, not so, I can't hear a thing. I suppose that I could pull a wire from the appropriate breaker on my breaker panel and check it with a clamp-on amp meter. The extension cords with the diode that light up only signify that voltage is present. But, it doesn't signify that the block heater is drawing current as it should. I opted to find a quicker method. I found this little device at Canadian Tire. When both test lights come on, all is good and the quiet block heater is drawing amperage and working as it should. I figured that I should put this out there during this cold snap. My 4Runner block heater is working just fine. A mere $21.00 something is worthwhile engine protection. :)

https://s19.postimg.org/ekil0yrnj/plugalive.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/ekil0yrnj/)

[Norwest Alta]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

[gulfman]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

X2

[gitrdun]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

How many ohms are the norm? I'm asking because I had thought of checking resistance but had no idea as to the desirable value.

[Norwest Alta]

How many ohms are the norm? I'm asking because I had thought of checking resistance but had no idea as to the desirable value.

I couldn’t say. If it makes a circuit it’s good. Your 4 runner might have a thermostat on the cord and it might not show that it’s working. Cut that off and put a real plug on it.

[Trochu]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

So turn it to ohms, black on one prong red on the other, should red about 25? I have my doubts mines working, plugged in and it seems to start slow.

[gitrdun]

I couldn’t say. If it makes a circuit it’s good. Your 4 runner might have a thermostat on the cord and it might not show that it’s working. Cut that off and put a real plug on it.

Thanks. If there is a thermostat on it, it's gone. :)

[gulfman]

Your 4 runner might have a thermostat on the cord and it might not show that it’s working. Cut that off and put a real plug on it.

Very good point!! Typically the 600 watt heater will have 23-25 ohms of resistance. Diesel block heaters probably more

[gitrdun]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

If it has continuity, doesn't it mean that there could be a short? :confused:

[KUDUHNTR]

When I plug in my Silverado diesel, I can actually hear the block heater warming up. On my Toyota 4Runner, not so, I can't hear a thing. I suppose that I could pull a wire from the appropriate breaker on my breaker panel and check it with a clamp-on amp meter. The extension cords with the diode that light up only signify that voltage is present. But, it doesn't signify that the block heater is drawing current as it should. I opted to find a quicker method. I found this little device at Canadian Tire. When both test lights come on, all is good and the quiet block heater is drawing amperage and working as it should. I figured that I should put this out there during this cold snap. My 4Runner block heater is working just fine. A mere $21.00 something is worthwhile engine protection. :)

https://s19.postimg.org/ekil0yrnj/plugalive.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/ekil0yrnj/)

We have a 2013 4 Runner as-well, block heater does not make noise that you can hear, but it works! I would like to pick up on of those cords from Can Trie also!

[Ken07AOVette]

also use a short as possible extension cord, long cords that are typically only 14 or 12ga will lose power depending on draw

[Pathfinder76]

You will know in the morning.

[Norwest Alta]

If it has continuity, doesn't it mean that there could be a short? :confused:

No. Electricity run on a circuit. No continuity means the circuit is broke. Could be the cord. Might be the heater element. If you have no continuity unplug the cord from the element then check for continuity thru element.

[owlhoot]

My diesel had a circulating block heater that you could here, My gas jobby doesn't so I use one of those Cdn Tire devices to ensure it is working. Its good for testing cords also

[gitrdun]

You will know in the morning.

I prefer my method. :)

[catnthehat]

My F350 had a faulty plug , checked with the multi meter it had intermittent continuity .
Changed the plug at the block heater and the 6 litre deisel fires up in -40 no problem :)
Cat

[Suzukisam]

You won’t hear it make noise on newer Toyota because the block heater is not in coolent. It’s in an open air space in the block heating up the metal and slowly radiate to the rest of the engine. Basicly it’s an external heater

[gulfman]

So turn it to ohms, black on one prong red on the other, should red about 25? I have my doubts mines working, plugged in and it seems to start slow. Exactly

[Tfng]

I've always looked/listened for the spark when it makes or breaks contact.

[Passthru]

You won’t hear it make noise on newer Toyota because the block heater is not in coolent. It’s in an open air space in the block heating up the metal and slowly radiate to the rest of the engine. Basicly it’s an external heater

Agreed. My Tacoma block heater doesn't make the usual hiss my chevys have in the past but it still works. Must be the different design.

[gitrdun]

You won’t hear it make noise on newer Toyota because the block heater is not in coolent. It’s in an open air space in the block heating up the metal and slowly radiate to the rest of the engine. Basicly it’s an external heater

I didn't know that. But it's good information, thanks. :)

[bulletman]

When I plug in my TACOMA i can clearly hear it start.

[gitrdun]

OK guys, I totally understand and appreciate all of your input as far as checking things with multi meters, etc. But not everyone is equipped with such test instruments, nor are they familiar with their uses. This simple little device makes it easy for the regular run of the mill family guy or gall to ensure that his or her heater is working. :)

[Pathfinder76]

I prefer my method. :)

And if you find out it isn’t working the morning result will be the same.

[Trochu]

Exactly

Thanks. An electrician I'm not.

[gitrdun]

And if you find out it isn’t working the morning result will be the same.

Right, you are correct. But at least I'll find out that there is a problem that needs fixing. For crying out loud chuck, I'm simply trying out to send out a little help out there for folks in need. Seriously though, if you or anyone else should feel smarter, then simply ignore this post and move on, it's that simple. :)

[CMichaud]

When I plug in my Silverado diesel, I can actually hear the block heater warming up. On my Toyota 4Runner, not so, I can't hear a thing. I suppose that I could pull a wire from the appropriate breaker on my breaker panel and check it with a clamp-on amp meter. The extension cords with the diode that light up only signify that voltage is present. But, it doesn't signify that the block heater is drawing current as it should. I opted to find a quicker method. I found this little device at Canadian Tire. When both test lights come on, all is good and the quiet block heater is drawing amperage and working as it should. I figured that I should put this out there during this cold snap. My 4Runner block heater is working just fine. A mere $21.00 something is worthwhile engine protection. :)

https://s19.postimg.org/ekil0yrnj/plugalive.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/ekil0yrnj/)

I check mine and the wife's every year using this.

This year it showed ok and then I noticed that the second light went out. Jiggled the cable and started smoking. Had a little slice in the cord on the BH side and was shorting out. Cut the cord and replaced with new plug now all is good.

[Mr Flyguy]

I've always looked/listened for the spark when it makes or breaks contact.

Exactly. My 2013 4-Runner does not make a sound but when I disconnect the cord I see a reassuring little arc.

Which made me have doubts about the block heater on my 2010 Tacoma. Sure enough, had it plugged in for 6 hours on Thursday but no go that evening.

[elkhunter11]

When block heaters fail, they usually leave an open circuit with no continuity. If I am curious as to whether it is okay, I use my multimeter.

[RACKER]

When I plug in my Silverado diesel, I can actually hear the block heater warming up. On my Toyota 4Runner, not so, I can't hear a thing. I suppose that I could pull a wire from the appropriate breaker on my breaker panel and check it with a clamp-on amp meter. The extension cords with the diode that light up only signify that voltage is present. But, it doesn't signify that the block heater is drawing current as it should. I opted to find a quicker method. I found this little device at Canadian Tire. When both test lights come on, all is good and the quiet block heater is drawing amperage and working as it should. I figured that I should put this out there during this cold snap. My 4Runner block heater is working just fine. A mere $21.00 something is worthwhile engine protection. :)

https://s19.postimg.org/ekil0yrnj/plugalive.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/ekil0yrnj/)
Thanks for the great info.That device will make it very easy to check it out.People can never be happy with anything.Im an electrician with quality meters and i would use that.

[TimeOff]

Usually I have found the plug end has broken wires from flexing after a few seasons. Just back of the plug. The flat 3 wire cord on those things are not of great quality.
Cut plug end off and put a new plug on with electrical tape wrapped back from plug a couple inches, that will stop the bending near the plug that breaks the wires internally.
Otherwise, the heat element in the frost plug will corrode enough to short out and blow itself out of the block thru shorting, indicated by a pool of antifreeze under the vehicle.

[catnthehat]

Usually I have found the plug end has broken wires from flexing after a few seasons. Just back of the plug. The flat 3 wire cord on those things are not of great quality.
Cut plug end off and put a new plug on with electrical tape wrapped back from plug a couple inches, that will stop the bending near the plug that breaks the wires internally.
Otherwise, the heat element in the frost plug will corrode enough to short out and blow itself out of the block thru shorting, indicated by a pool of antifreeze under the vehicle.

my problem was inside the plug itself with one of the prongs- never saw that before
Cat

[speedfreak]

when I disconnect the cord I see a reassuring little arc



Just make sure if it's on a GFCI plug (most newer outside plugs are) that it doesn't trip. Sometimes that little arc is enough to pop the plug and leave the outlet unpowered.

[Sundancefisher]

Do new car block heaters draw power 24/7 or does it cycle on and off? If cycling what is the cycle? Time on. Time off.

[Unregistered user]

Good info gitrdun, thanx for posting.

[Bellero]

I can't hear if mine's working or not but I can definitely tell just by the time it takes the heater to push warm air and the engine temp to raise.

[Dr. Phil A]

Years ago I built a circuit tester for exactly this test.
Male and female three prong plugs
1 - 2 wire light socket with pig tails and a bulb. Has to be a real bulb. 60 watt rough service bulb works well.
1 foot of house wire. Peel the white covery off.
Put one wire pigtail off the light socket to the male end and the other pigtaIl wire to the corresponding post on the female end.
Pull two wires out of the 1 foot chunk am attach them to the male and female plugs.
Plug your cord into the male end and your block heater into the female end. If the circuit is good the light comes on.
No light no good. Always test it on a known good circuit just to make sure.

[Desert Eagle]

How many of you plug in your vehicles? And at what temperature?

We have not plugged in a gasoline engine vehicle in many many years. It was -37 yesterday and they both fired up no issues.

[Trochu]

How many of you plug in your vehicles? And at what temperature?

We have not plugged in a gasoline engine vehicle in many many years. It was -37 yesterday and they both fired up no issues.

I plug mine in when it gets cold, but generally try to park it in the garage.

For me, when its outside, its not about it not starting when its cold, its about the additional wear experienced from a cold start.

[Trochu]

Do new car block heaters draw power 24/7 or does it cycle on and off? If cycling what is the cycle? Time on. Time off.

I know of no light vehicle that cycles the block heater.

[Norwest Alta]

How many of you plug in your vehicles? And at what temperature?

We have not plugged in a gasoline engine vehicle in many many years. It was -37 yesterday and they both fired up no issues.

My diesel gets plugged in around -5. Same as the wife's truck. I feel that it is better for them and I'd be surprised if you'd notice it on the power bill unless you leave it plugged in 24/7.

[Norwest Alta]

Do new car block heaters draw power 24/7 or does it cycle on and off? If cycling what is the cycle? Time on. Time off.

I think some do. My brother was saying that on his truck the cord has a thermostat controlled switch that comes on at -15. I'm not so sure about my truck but the little spark that others mentioned can only be seen on mine when the engine is cold and I plug it in. If I plug it in with the engine already warm I haven't seen it.

[Xbolt7mm]

I use a cord that has a light at the end when its plugged in so i know the cord is good to go, plug it in for about 5 minutes so i know the heater is drawing power then unplug it fast from the wall, it will spark if the heater is working. It wont spark if the heater is not working, hard to tell in the daylight though.

[Dick284]

I just use a cheater test cord I have and use a clip on ammeter.

[elkhunter11]

I just use a cheater test cord I have and use a clip on ammeter.

I used to do that, until my clamp on meter died. I haven't gotten around to purchasing a new one.

[Unregistered user]

How many of you plug in your vehicles? And at what temperature?

We have not plugged in a gasoline engine vehicle in many many years. It was -37 yesterday and they both fired up no issues.

I'm cheap, I plug in at -15 and less. Cold starts are brutal on engines.

[Bub]

I plug in at -25 - -30. Plugged mine in yesterday for the first time this year (even though it's been below 30 for a few days now). I don't really check it because I know it works when I start the vehicle in the morning or whenever.

I installed one of those myself in a 4Runner before and yes, it is a weird one, meaning an unusual heater, it plugs in the block and warms up the metal.

[Mackinaw]

Multi meter works just fine. If it’s got continuity it’s working.

just because you have continuity dose not mean your bo k heater is working properly.
without knowing tbe resistance of the heater you can't be sure it is heating to its proper amount

mack

[RZR]

How many ohms are the norm? I'm asking because I had thought of checking resistance but had no idea as to the desirable value.

Your well educated! :lol:

[crazy_davey]

Your well educated! :lol:

You’re the real genius here, right? LOL! :rolleye2:

[Dick284]

I used to do that, until my clamp on meter died. I haven't gotten around to purchasing a new one.

That's what ya get for retiring.

You could also just put a voltage dropping resistor in series, and measure the voltage drop induced by the current flow. But I digress, just go buy a Princess Auto cheapie, and move along. Or phone a friend.

[Dick284]

just because you have continuity dose not mean your bo k heater is working properly.
without knowing tbe resistance of the heater you can't be sure it is heating to its proper amount

mack

If you know the wattage, you can mathematically find the resistance.

Power(Watt's)= Voltage(Volts)[squared]/Resistance(Ohms)

Do a bit of grade 7 math and you'll come up with:

Resistance(Ohms) = Voltage[squared](Volts)/ Power(Watt's)

https://i.imgur.com/tcrjVxm.png

Bottom row center.

C'mon fellas this shouldn't be this hard, back when I was like 7 or 8 my dad who was a only a Millwright, was faced with the same dilemma, he stood me in front of our watthour meter(power meter) and plugged in the car block heater, he hollered is the silver thing turning faster? I said "yup" it sure did speed up. Done deal.(I dunno if the new watthour meters would show this though) but I've got the "knack" as they say.
https://youtu.be/Dx6HojLBsnw

[Taco]

Any competent mechanic shop will check your block heater every time they service your vehicle.

[Smokinyotes]

Meh. I never check mine. It’s always +15C in my shop. :)

[RZR]

You’re the real genius here, right? LOL! :rolleye2:

You know it brother. :sHa_shakeshout:

[58thecat]

Plug in and I can hear the block heater kick in...-15 or colder....usually.

[purgatory.sv]

I use an older voltmeter purchase from radio shack ,i check the cord then the heater,i have had to replace the plug and followed the procedure described in post#31.

[sledn]

General Motors vehicles have the block heater thermostatically controlled-they will not give power to the block heater unless it is below -18'c. Not sure about other manufactures.

[marlin1]

-15 or lower and I will plug in at work , -25 maybe in garage at home with no heat . why wear down the engine to prove it will start temps is my opinion . neat little device op could barely hear girlfriends chevy heater come on last nite .

[ctd]

Any competent mechanic shop will check your block heater every time they service your vehicle.


Lol they barely do what they say they did let alone anything considered extra.

[Bub]

^ lol. Last time I went (years ago now), the guy refused to check the tire pressure when I had a low pressure light on.

[bobinthesky]

I'm cheap, I plug in at -15 and less. Cold starts are brutal on engines.


A good synthetic oil lessens that cold start wear.

[huntsfurfish]

When I plug in my Silverado diesel, I can actually hear the block heater warming up. On my Toyota 4Runner, not so, I can't hear a thing. I suppose that I could pull a wire from the appropriate breaker on my breaker panel and check it with a clamp-on amp meter. The extension cords with the diode that light up only signify that voltage is present. But, it doesn't signify that the block heater is drawing current as it should. I opted to find a quicker method. I found this little device at Canadian Tire. When both test lights come on, all is good and the quiet block heater is drawing amperage and working as it should. I figured that I should put this out there during this cold snap. My 4Runner block heater is working just fine. A mere $21.00 something is worthwhile engine protection. :)

https://s19.postimg.org/ekil0yrnj/plugalive.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/ekil0yrnj/)

Thanks gitrdun! The older I get, the more I like easy. And thanks guys for the other helpful posts. I have a couple multi meters kicking around here but I am going to get one of these.:sHa_shakeshout::)

[Norwest Alta]

Thanks gitrdun! The older I get, the more I like easy. And thanks guys for the other helpful posts. I have a couple multi meters kicking around here but I am going to get one of these.:sHa_shakeshout::)

I'm sure it works but it is $21 down the drain when wife drive's off without unplugging it. Lol. I'd have to buy bulk.

[gitrdun]

I'm sure it works but it is $21 down the drain when wife drive's off without unplugging it. Lol. I'd have to buy bulk.

You don't need to leave it plugged in. I just used mine to check that the block heater was working. When both lights came on, I was satisfied. Unplugged it and put it in my tool box of electrical gizmos. :)

[gitrdun]

Thanks gitrdun! The older I get, the more I like easy. And thanks guys for the other helpful posts. I have a couple multi meters kicking around here but I am going to get one of these.:sHa_shakeshout::)

When you get older, you find smarter and easier ways to get things done. I just fixed a minor problem with our stove. While I was down on the floor, I contemplated what else might I do while I was down there. :sHa_shakeshout:

[Norwest Alta]

You don't need to leave it plugged in. I just used mine to check that the block heater was working. When both lights came on, I was satisfied. Unplugged it and put it in my tool box of electrical gizmos. :)

Oh ok thanks

[gitrdun]

Oh ok thanks

Hey, you're most welcomed. I sure as heck wouldn't want to be at the root of a problem with you and the war department. :sHa_shakeshout:

[Norwest Alta]

Hey, you're most welcomed. I sure as heck wouldn't want to be at the root of a problem with you and the war department. :sHa_shakeshout:

No danger of that. I'm wrong she's right. This has been established many many moons ago but if I could blame it on you that would be much appreciated. Lol

[gitrdun]

No danger of that. I'm wrong she's right. This has been established many many moons ago but if I could blame it on you that would be much appreciated. Lol

Oh buddy, I walk the same line. But it makes for a much happier marriage. Go ahead and blame me if you must, I can shoulder it. But most importantly I have a ways with the ladies, my charm, magnetic personality. And once upon a time, my Adonis like physique. Of course, you realize I'm full of bull. :sHa_shakeshout:

[Norwest Alta]

Oh buddy, I walk the same line. But it makes for a much happier marriage. Go ahead and blame me if you must, I can shoulder it. But most importantly I have a ways with the ladies, my charm, magnetic personality. And once upon a time, my Adonis like physique. Of course, you realize I'm full of bull. :sHa_shakeshout:

I have much of the same traits. Except I tell her a can touch my ear with my tongue. Used to work but I think she figured out I'm a bs'er to.

[huntsfurfish]

I'm sure it works but it is $21 down the drain when wife drive's off without unplugging it. Lol. I'd have to buy bulk.

Lol, never thought of that.

[silver]

They are a darn handy tool. I picked one up a bunch of years ago and I use it like you do, test a circuit every now and again. I have been trying to think of how to mount one and not lose it, still working on that.

[pikergolf]

I have much of the same traits. Except I tell her a can touch my ear with my tongue. Used to work but I think she figured out I'm a bs'er to.

My gawd you must have big ears. :)

[Unregistered user]

A good synthetic oil lessens that cold start wear.

But for 50 cents a night, you can eliminate it, plus your heater gives warm air that much quicker.

[bobinthesky]

But for 50 cents a night, you can eliminate it, plus your heater gives warm air that much quicker.


That's great if you have an outlet.
I started using synthetic oil 25 years ago because I couldn't park near a plug in when I was out of town for a few days. These days I still can't get near a plug in when I'm out of town so I still run synthetic oil and keep a good battery installed. My vehicles always start and I keep them up to around 200k and buy a new one. To date I've never had an oil related or engine wear problem, maybe the guy who gets my old vehicle has but that's the gamble you take when purchasing used.

[58thecat]

My gawd you must have big ears. :)

Must be British royalty eh!:sHa_sarcasticlol:


Block heaters still working....she is purring or that might be a cat unde the hood.

[elkhunter11]

But for 50 cents a night, you can eliminate it, plus your heater gives warm air that much quicker.

That 50 cents per night easily pays for the difference in using synthetic oil, and then some, if you purchase AMS oil at the preferred customer price.

[thumper]

Oh buddy, I walk the same line. But it makes for a much happier marriage. Go ahead and blame me if you must, I can shoulder it. But most importantly I have a ways with the ladies, my charm, magnetic personality. And once upon a time, my Adonis like physique. Of course, you realize I'm full of bull. :sHa_shakeshout:

Oft-times, you can be right, or you can be happy. It's your choice!
My fishing buddy and I have an understanding: when on fishing trips, we DO NOT CORRECT EACH OTHER - ever. That way we can enjoy a couple of days without being wrong!

[denied access]

I plug in when it gets below zero but have a timer. 2 hrs until temps hit -15 then 4 hrs. Much cheaper on the power bill then plugging in all night and much easier on the engine in the morning.

[Norwest Alta]

Oft-times, you can be right, or you can be happy. It's your choice!
My fishing buddy and I have an understanding: when on fishing trips, we DO NOT CORRECT EACH OTHER - ever. That way we can enjoy a couple of days without being wrong!

What's it like to be right? I might have to take up fishin to find out.

[Dog_River]

I have a 2008 Ford Diesel 6.4. I have no continuity and looked to see if there is a fuse and can't find any in the owners manual.

I guess I just need to replace the block heater ? Any thoughts ?

Dog_River

[Ken07AOVette]

I have a 2008 Ford Diesel 6.4. I have no continuity and looked to see if there is a fuse and can't find any in the owners manual.

I guess I just need to replace the block heater ? Any thoughts ?

Dog_River

There is most definately not a fuse. Your block heater cord is bad, the connection is bad, or your block heater is bad. Follow the cord up to the block and unplug the cord, test there and work your way back.

[gitrdun]

I have a 2008 Ford Diesel 6.4. I have no continuity and looked to see if there is a fuse and can't find any in the owners manual.

I guess I just need to replace the block heater ? Any thoughts ?

Dog_River

No, I don't think that you need to replace your block heater. Lack of continuity may simply mean that the cord between your grill and it's connection on the block heater terminal has an open circuit, meaning a broken wire, bad connection at the plug end or at the block heater. Block heaters also don't use fuses, so that's not your problem. You can easily trouble shoot it with a multi-meter. I think that I could walk you through the process, however our good friend and knowledgeable and well educated friend Dick284 could likely walk you through the process better than I can.

[Dog_River]

I will check it out with my meter and let you know what I find.

Thanks, Dog_River

[elkhunter11]

No, I don't think that you need to replace your block heater. Lack of continuity may simply mean that the cord between your grill and it's connection on the block heater terminal has an open circuit, meaning a broken wire, bad connection at the plug end or at the block heater. Block heaters also don't use fuses, so that's not your problem. You can easily trouble shoot it with a multi-meter. I think that I could walk you through the process, however our good friend and knowledgeable and well educated friend Dick284 could likely walk you through the process better than I can.


After flexing in the cold for a while, the cords can break down to where they can't carry the load, and they burn through. I avoid this by leaving the block heater cord coiled up under the hood, with a short low temperature cord routed to the front of the vehicle, and fastened to the tow hood or frame. That way, the actual block heater cord does not flex and break down, and it can't get damaged if someone drives off without unplugging it. The worst that happens is that the short low temperature cord may need replacement at some point, and that is much cheaper and usually much easier to replace.

[denied access]

I have a 2008 Ford Diesel 6.4. I have no continuity and looked to see if there is a fuse and can't find any in the owners manual.

I guess I just need to replace the block heater ? Any thoughts ?

Dog_River

Of course there is no fuse. Put a new end on the chord. Black to bronze, White to silver, green or copper to the bottom roundy prong.

[elkhunter11]

Of course there is no fuse. Put a new end on the chord. Black to bronze, White to silver, green or copper to the bottom roundy prong.

The issue may be a break in the cord itself, or where it plugs into the block heater, it may not be a problem with the cord end.

[denied access]

The issue may be a break in the cord itself, or where it plugs into the block heater, it may not be a problem with the cord end.

yep. But its probably the cord end and that the easiest place to start. Especially if he lets his wife drive it. Mine seems to forget to unplug it a couple times a year.

[Unregistered user]

That 50 cents per night easily pays for the difference in using synthetic oil, and then some, if you purchase AMS oil at the preferred customer price.
I run Mobil 1 and I park inside at home. At work I plug in so it's company juice.

[Trochu]

I have a 2008 Ford Diesel 6.4. I have no continuity and looked to see if there is a fuse and can't find any in the owners manual.

I guess I just need to replace the block heater ? Any thoughts ?

Dog_River

If it is indeed the cord, replacements can be bought online for about $15.00.

[fordtruckin]

I know my f150 block heater works, You can hear it circulating the coolant when plugged in.

[kayaker]

So turn it to ohms, black on one prong red on the other, should red about 25? I have my doubts mines working, plugged in and it seems to start slow.

My f-150 heater shows 25 ohms, the heater on my 2.4l 4 cyl Outlander shows 36 ohms (likely a 600 and 400 watt heater respectively).

As with the OP my F150 heater crackles and fizzes when it starts (my others have all done this too) but the Mitsubishi is silent and I thought it was broken (if you open the hood and its dead quite you might just make out a slight ping of expanding metal).

[Johnny G1]

I know mine is working, the hood is clean but the fender's are covered in Ice?? 2001 cummins with a ft. of snow on the roof.

[Norwest Alta]

Worry about it next year. -26 this am and at noon it was -2. +1 1/2 way between gc and gp.

[Dog_River]

If it is indeed the cord, replacements can be bought online for about $15.00.

My cord was against the exhaust and burnt the cord. I see on ebay this one for $118.00 USD

https://www.ebay.com/itm/OEM-NEW-2008-2010-Ford-F-250-F-350-Super-Duty-Block-Heater-Cord-6-4L-DIESEL-/250892947713

where can you get them for $15.00 ?

Thanks, Dog_River

[gitrdun]

double tap.

[gitrdun]

I know my f150 block heater works, You can hear it circulating the coolant when plugged in.

What you are hearing isn't the block heater. It's the Ford rusting, and I can hear it from here in Chevy nation. :sHa_shakeshout:

[Trochu]

My cord was against the exhaust and burnt the cord. I see on ebay this one for $118.00 USD

https://www.ebay.com/itm/OEM-NEW-2008-2010-Ford-F-250-F-350-Super-Duty-Block-Heater-Cord-6-4L-DIESEL-/250892947713

where can you get them for $15.00 ?

Thanks, Dog_River

ebay (http://www.ebay.ca/itm/95-16-Ford-Powerstroke-Diesel-Block-Heater-Element-Cord-for-6-0-6-4-6-7-7-3/332426596516?hash=item4d662b50a4:g:2kYAAOSwry1Z8fK B&vxp=mtr)

Sorry, was $15USD. Can't speak to the quality though.