Plug-in Heater
Senior User
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 124
Likes: 0
You should be able to hear it working by the drivers side tire. Mine I have to move the connector on the block plug then it starts heating. Sounds like a hissing noise. The cord is cheap I think like $15 to replace.
Hotshot
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 14,069
Likes: 17
From: Melbourne, Ky
On my trucks when it's cold out, the WTS light will stay on for a good 30 seconds. I will usually wait another 15 to 30 before I even try to crank it. You might have some glow plugs not working.
Thread Starter
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 351
Likes: 1
From: Sullivan, IL USA
Plug-in Heater cord.
Well, I found out what is wrong with it.
http://cid-11c122a2edc4a553.photos.l...r/DSC00054.jpg
Well, I found out what is wrong with it.
http://cid-11c122a2edc4a553.photos.l...r/DSC00054.jpg
Hotshot
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 14,069
Likes: 17
From: Melbourne, Ky
FOREIGN GURU
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 7,655
Likes: 7
From: Celaya, Gto. MX
what happended? 
Glad you found out your trouble.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2006
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From: Gambrills
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 246
Likes: 0
From: Loganville,GA
I have never plugged mine in before, and from the looks of it the previous owner never plugged it in either. Since its getting cold I want start plugging it in. Should I keep an eye on it the first time I plug it in? Is there any Fire Hazards with these Block heaters? I just didnt know since the block heater has never beeen used. I am sure its fine, Just wondering, want to be safe.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 5,259
Likes: 17
From: Gambrills
I would clean the plug real good (get all the green stuff out). spray contact cleaner and scrape it out then spray some more. You most likely want to use a GFI outlet (like all outside outlets should be). Make sure you have a heavy duty extension cord like 12 AWG or lower (10 AWG). I normally run the cord under the tire so in case I forget to unplug it the tire will unplug it for me (It has happened before and unfortunately it may happen again). Turn the power off then unplug it and never start it while plugged in. Also leave your defrost in the "ON" position, this way you will not have to scrape your windshield in the morning.
Enjoy your easy starts in the morning!
Enjoy your easy starts in the morning!
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 246
Likes: 0
From: Loganville,GA
I would clean the plug real good (get all the green stuff out). spray contact cleaner and scrape it out then spray some more. You most likely want to use a GFI outlet (like all outside outlets should be). Make sure you have a heavy duty extension cord like 12 AWG or lower (10 AWG). I normally run the cord under the tire so in case I forget to unplug it the tire will unplug it for me (It has happened before and unfortunately it may happen again). Turn the power off then unplug it and never start it while plugged in. Also leave your defrost in the "ON" position, this way you will not have to scrape your windshield in the morning.
Enjoy your easy starts in the morning!
Enjoy your easy starts in the morning!
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 5,259
Likes: 17
From: Gambrills
If the plug has not been used before it most likely has a greenish goo in it (tarnish from brass/copper). There is a danger of some sort (I am going by memory) by starting it while plugged in. I do not remember the "exactlies" of it but someone will help refresh my memory....It was a long shot (danger) but I still do it (after reading about it). See how bad my memory is?....this is why I run the cord under the tire, lol!
Oh, and use common sense while plugging in in the cold rain and snow.
You will like the plug in method I am sure.
Oh, and use common sense while plugging in in the cold rain and snow.
You will like the plug in method I am sure.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 5,259
Likes: 17
From: Gambrills
Thanks man, This Green stuff you are talking about is? it is on the end of the plug? I do use outside outlets that do have the Surge protection thing. My truck stays parked in the street so I cant forget to unplug it...lol.. I would have never known to unplug it before starting.. whats the problem with starting it plugged in?( I will never do it, just curious.)
"Yes, you can blow the heater right off due to thermal shock. It is not common except up nor't where it is COLD, but beware that it *can* and does happen.
When the block heater is on, the coolant around it is much warmer than that in the rest of the system. When you start the engine, COLD coolant circulates thru the block, and when it comes in contact with the heater element, you can wreck it."