Last night it was -17 below so I plugged my truck in at 5:00am, went to start it at 7:30am, motor spun like it was 70 degrees out. Since 2 or 3 hours seems to be enough with these factory block heaters, does anyone know if they can be left plugged in all night without any ill effects? I don't seem to have much long term success with outside timers, so I thought maybe I'll just plug it in when I go to bed and leave it until the next morning. Also does anyone know of the wattage rating on the factory block heaters (1998 F-150 4.6)? Thanks for any advice.

Spotty..

 

Your owners manual states "An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster and allows the heater-defroster system to respond quickly. Use of an engine block heater is strongly recommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach -23° C (-10° F) or below.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before starting the vehicle. Using the heater for longer than three hours will not harm the engine, so the heater can be plugged in the night before starting the vehicle.

To prevent electrical shock, do not use your heater with ungrounded electrical systems or two-pronged (cheater) adapters."

 

I've left mine plugged in for 2 or 3 days. Won't hurt anything. NorminN.B.

 

could use one of those timer deals.

 

I've plugged mine in all night and no problems at all.

 

Thanks for all the replies. It seems like every used vehicle I have ever bought, the owners manual is gone. Simple things like this would be in the book and available to look up if I had one. Thanks again!

Spotty..

 

You can download a copy of the owner's manual at www.motorcraft.com

 

I wish my truck had a block heater....

 

Racerguy, where on the site can you get the manual? I entered my VIN, but didn't see anywhere on the site to find the manual.

I have my paper manuals, but I like to get PDF's of just about everything I own.

TIA

 

Click on Technical Resources. Which takes you to a another window. Then click on Owners Guides.

 

Racerguy......... Thank you! What a great site! Downloaded my manual in about 20 seconds! Tons of good reading for cold Minnesota nights! I think I can read up on my Gt also.

Spotty..

 

Thanks KRMan

And you're welcome Spotty

 

ditto... wisconsin weather? getting cold out there.

as far as leaving it plugged in? not a problem, as people have posted. previous vehicles had them and they work GREAT! plugged 'em in b4 i went to bed, in morning, cranks right up! wahoo!

 

The 97 Ford I had, came from the factory with a block heater as standard equipment. Are you sure you don't have one. The cords are hard to find sometimes. They usually are on the drivers side, along the fender or below it and to the bumper. NorminN.B.