Engine block heater

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Dec 6, 2013 | 06:01 AM

Dogmann

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Engine block heater

My 2008 V10 says on the window sticker that it came with a engine block heater.
Where would I locate the cord ? Anything special
I need to do? Or just plug it in!?? Thanks

Dec 6, 2013 | 06:03 AM

redford

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From: Stephensville WI

There should be an extension cord looking thing around the front bumper.

Dec 6, 2013 | 06:14 AM

Dogmann

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I will look again. Didn't see it. Now , can I leave it plugged in for days if I'm not using my truck?

Dec 6, 2013 | 06:16 AM

Dogmann

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Also- do you guys use a standard heavy duty extension cord or does ford like you to use something they sell ?

Dec 6, 2013 | 07:16 AM

Will Bite

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You don't need to plug it in if your not using the truck. You probably don't need to use it.

Dec 6, 2013 | 09:03 AM

jstnromero

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From: The Woodlands, TX

If you do in fact need an engine block heater. 3-5 hours before you want to leave should be sufficient. Most people hook them up to a timer to come on a few hours before they leave first thing in the morning.

As far as the extension cord goes, just get a grounded Heavy duty outdoor rated cord and you should be fine.

Dec 6, 2013 | 01:42 PM

Dogwood36322

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From: South Alabama

Some trucks come with the block heater and not the cord. My 04 was like that from the factory.

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Dec 6, 2013 | 03:28 PM

Pikachu

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From: Amarillo, TEXAS!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dogwood36322

Some trucks come with the block heater and not the cord. My 04 was like that from the factory.

Well that just seems pretty cheesy of Ford to do that.

Dec 6, 2013 | 04:30 PM

#10

Dogmann

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Found it. Has the cord. Thanks

Dec 6, 2013 | 05:43 PM

#11

Dogmann

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If the heater is plugged in -is it safe to start the truck while it's plugged in?

Dec 6, 2013 | 06:02 PM

#12

texastech_diesel

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From: Breckenridge, TX

It won't hurt anything, it's just a hot loop of element inside the engine. It sits there just fine when the coolant gets into the 200s during normal op, just idling it shouldn't cause any problems. Just don't drive away with it plugged in.... did that once.

Dec 7, 2013 | 11:57 AM

#13

fordman19762003

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Dogmann

If the heater is plugged in -is it safe to start the truck while it's plugged in?

I know a lot of guys that do without any issues, but I wouldn't. I've been told that when the truck is running and the coolant is moving around you could get tiny air bubbles and if one of those bubbles settles around the heater element long enough it can burn it out.

I usually will plug my gas powered truck in a couple of hours before I leave or overnight if I need to leave early. My truck will start no problem no matter how cold it gets but it's easier on the engine and the engine warms up quicker if it's pre heated.

Dec 9, 2013 | 04:16 PM

#14

ImaThorp

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I use a little thermocube plug I got from the farm store. they sell them at home Depot too. It comes on around 35 and shuts off over 45

heres a link for the Home Depot one. Cadet Freezebuster FB3/TC3 Thermocube Ivory In-Line Limiting Plug-In Freeze Protection Thermostat-FB3 at The Home Depot