Replacing block heater - mess?
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Replacing block heater - mess?
Is there any way to replace the block heater without undergoing a baptism by many gallons of coolant? Presumably I should drain the radiator first?
My block heater isn't heating, and I'm pretty sure it's not the cord, but will do a resistance check in the element tonight before going further.
Thanks!
My block heater isn't heating, and I'm pretty sure it's not the cord, but will do a resistance check in the element tonight before going further.
Thanks!
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I was thinking that 'being able to move fast' might buy me a minimal shower during the swap. It was 15F here today and the only thing worse than a coolant shower is getting one in the winter ;-).
I wonder if you could put a shop vac on the radiator cap to pull a vacuum as you replace this part - as is sometimes done with oil pan/oil plug repairs?
I wonder if you could put a shop vac on the radiator cap to pull a vacuum as you replace this part - as is sometimes done with oil pan/oil plug repairs?
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You could drain the block before you change the block heater. What I used on my truck was a 1/4 ball valve with a short nipple on one end and a hose barb on the other. Take the plug out, put the valve in and put a hose on the hoes barb and drain the block. I guess if you use a wet/dry vac and take the filter out you may be able to reuse to coolant.
Red
Red
Last edited by Red97350; 11-27-2012 at 05:16 PM. Reason: wrong size ball valve
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Steve- be very careful with the block heater cord. With some of them catching fire, I don't know that I'd trust anything but OEM.
Also- NEVER park a truck in a garage or under a carport with the block heater plugged in. Dealing with a truck fire is one thing. Having your house catch fire is way worse!
Also- NEVER park a truck in a garage or under a carport with the block heater plugged in. Dealing with a truck fire is one thing. Having your house catch fire is way worse!