Why do you need a block heater for a diesel engine?
by Dale Yalanovsky. A block heater is a built-in heating device to keep your engine block warm. This is especially useful in northern climes to give you almost instant heat during chilly morning start-ups, and block heaters are essential for any diesel-engine vehicle to aid in cold-weather starting.
Why is my GM block heater not working?
It prevents the heater from operating unless it is colder than 0°F or -18C. It may seem insane, but it really does make sense if you understand why. If you install an aftermarket block heater without this circuitry, the PCM will see warm coolant, but a cold engine and cold air coming into it.
What should the resistance be on a block heater?
An ideal resistance reading will be about 20 to 30 ohms, but if there is a “0” or infinite resistance, the block heater is not functional. Dale Yalanovsky has been writing professionally since 1978.
How can you tell if a block heater is working?
How to Test a Block Heater. Wait one hour, then feel the engine block and compare the relative temperature of the block to other steel parts on the vehicle, like the bumper or the fenders. If the block heater is working, you’ll notice a difference in the temperature between the engine block and the other parts of the vehicle.
Where to put the engine block heater on a minivan?
You want it to tip/rotate like a throttle plate. Then use a vice grip to lever/pull it out of the block. Just remember to drain your coolant first, and even the block if possible (block drain). These block heaters are usually installed on the back side of the block.
When to leave engine block heater on all night?
Cord & Placement……doesn’t stretch or pinch cord. Using a block heater timer is a good choice. -20c to -35c leave on all night ! On a really cold night, ( -20c and lower ) when you park your car/van/truck for the night plug it in while engine block is still warm.
How do you drain an engine block heater?
Core plug is removed by putting a rod against half of it and hitting it, to knock that half inward. You want it to tip/rotate like a throttle plate. Then use a vice grip to lever/pull it out of the block. Just remember to drain your coolant first, and even the block if possible (block drain).