BLOCK HEATER
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Junior User
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 53
Likes: 0
From: New York
BLOCK HEATER
just got my new leftover 2012 f350 lariat cc with most all of the options. the one thing I noticed missing is a block heater. I will take it north in the winter where it may see -25f. I had a block heater in my 7.3 but really only used it below -15f. that truck would always start no matter what. so the question is, do I really need it (probably)? and what is involved in installing it?
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 642
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From: herriman utah
the 6.7 cold starts better than any diesel I have been around. I have started mine down to minus 10 and if I ran the glow plug it would start about like it does when its 60 outside. I would say possibly cycle the key twice if you are worried about it.
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 914
Likes: 1
From: Saskatoon, SK, CA
Hopefully it is installed already. It would be a pain to put one in. If you only need the cord you are in good shape. Sometimes forget to plug mine in for twelve hours at -30C and it starts fine, but I prefer it plugged in - warms up faster and easier on the truck in general.
These trucks aren't like the diesels of the 80's where if you didn't plug them in you were towing the block of ice to a heated shop and warming it up for 12 hours. Thank God those days are behind us.
These trucks aren't like the diesels of the 80's where if you didn't plug them in you were towing the block of ice to a heated shop and warming it up for 12 hours. Thank God those days are behind us.
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 5,929
Likes: 287
From: EC Iowa
And yes you will be amazed at cold starting on 6.7. After you have it a month you will forget about all the what ifs and just be amazed every time you get in it!!!!
BTW. welcome to FTE 6.7
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 9,544
Likes: 43
I've started mine well below -30 not plugged in. I would get it setup if it was me, a lot easier on the engine.
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Super Moderator
Joined: Aug 2008
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From: Frederick, MD
pretty sure the element is in the block. It would be above the starter on the passenger side.
cord would route to the passenger side front bumper area.
If the element is in there you should be able to tell.
cord would route to the passenger side front bumper area.
If the element is in there you should be able to tell.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 191
Likes: 2
From: Leavenworth, KS
I purchased my truck in El Paso, TX and it didn't come with the engine block heater element. I had the dealer install one before I would close the sale however. They removed the plug, added the element and cord....I don't recall the actual cost of installing it as I didn't pay for it. I have not had to use it yet...but I change duty stations in January and will be heading to Fort Riley, KS....I may get a chance to try it out there.
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Junior User
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 53
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From: New York
It appears I don't have the element in the block. I probably will put one in because it's so much easier on the engine if you use it when it's 20 below overnight. Seems you have to lose a little antifreeze when installing it. Off to the dealer to buy the parts. Thanks for the input
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,424
Likes: 12
From: BC Canada
You are going to want to drain antifreeze into a clean bucket from the spigot on the rad. Then you can put it back in after the element is installed. A lot will come out when you pull that plug as it's at the bottom of the cavity.