Hi!

So, I'm new to Canada and I'm living in Calgary. This will be my first Winter here. I have a Ford F-150 1997.

It doesn't have a block heater and I'm wondering if my engine could possibly crack without one? That's what people have been saying. Do I definitely need one to keep my truck safe?

Also, I need to get my truck Winterized...Any pointers on what needs doing essentially?

Does anyone know any good trustworthy places in Calgary to take my truck to get it sorted for the Winter? All checks, oil changes, tires, anti-freeze?


Thank you for reading!

Mark

 

What you need to know;
Cooling system capacity is 18.4L or 19.4 quarts.
Find out what the lowest temperatures you region is likely to have from some one who lives there.
Drain and replace coolant with antifreeze rated to below the lowest temperature you will likely experience by at least 5 degrees C or F.
To make it simple, use premixed antifreeze and follow the chart on the container to get the protection you need..
Run the motor from a cold start and top off as needed, as it heats to full temperature.
This is important to get all the air out or there will be problem getting the heater to supply enough heat.
Never use un-diluted antifreeze as a complete fill without adding water in the proper proportions vs temperature for protection.
.
Next, remove the battery cables and clean them and the battery posts.
Have a battery capacity check made so you know the condition of the battery.
.
Be sure you use 5w20 oil in the motor. Nothing heavier.
Good luck.

 

Hi i live couple hrs from calgary, the coldest it gets is -45C

 

Check your tire pressure at least once a week when it gets nasty cold. If we get some of that -30F below my tires will drop about 15 psi. A 97 probably has some bead oxidation especially if they are aluminum. If you have any bead leakers now, have them cleaned up before it gets really cold.

 

Take it to a Ford service department.

It may cost a tad more but guaranteed to be
done right.

 

Okay so I've never done the drain and replace coolant with antifreeze thing? How do I even do that?

Also, what is bead leaking? haha...

Wow! Maybe my best bet is to take it to the Ford service department? Just to make sure?

 

Yup. If you have never done this stuff before it could be a costly learning curve.

If the engine freezes it can crack the block.

Take it to Ford.