Block Heater

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Nov 2, 2012 | 06:35 PM

Csymons

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 21

Likes: 0

From: Richland, WA

Block Heater

How can you tell for sure that your block heater is working properly?

Nov 2, 2012 | 07:19 PM

'94IDITurbo7.3

Postmaster

Joined: Jul 2011

Posts: 3,061

Likes: 2

i can hear a "humming" noise coming from the area of the block heater when i plug it in and i am very quite and listen. easiest way it to plug it in for an hour or so and then feel the passenger side head/valve cover. if the heater is working then the head/valve cover will be warm.

Nov 2, 2012 | 07:20 PM

Csymons

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 21

Likes: 0

From: Richland, WA

Thank you I will try that

Nov 2, 2012 | 07:26 PM

Otahyoni

Posting Guru

Joined: Jan 2010

Posts: 1,665

Likes: 4

From: Terre Haute, IN

Like Eric said, I can hear a faint 'sizzle' after it's been plugged in for a bit. I also see a spark at the plug in when it makes contact with the extension cord....

Nov 3, 2012 | 12:24 AM

jayro88

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 1,943

Likes: 21

I just had to troubleshoot mine. I use a ohm meter to check for continuity. Your resistance will vary depending on the wattage of your heater, but they all should have continuity. I check mine at the plug and got nothing. I then unplugged the cord from the heater and ohm'd the heater. Had continuity. Pulled the cord and found a bad spot. Repaired it and now I am good to go.