Block heater vs cold start?
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New User
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 21
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Block heater vs cold start?
Had a 7.3 which I had to plug in. With this new engine it takes nothing to start it. If I used the block heater does anyone think it would save any strain on the engine for longevity
More Turbo
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 745
Likes: 10
From: upstate New York
I think you will find this debate goes on and on, personally I don't see the big deal of getting a timer when the temperatures dip below 15 f and have it come on at 1 o'clock in the morning and shut off at 4 am. Three little hours and my trucks oil and water temperatures are in the mid-thirties truck starts no sweat rides great to that first cup of coffee at 4 a.m. I switched too full synthetic Mobil 1 5w - 40 because some of the job sites in Utica NY 12 hours parked at -5 and no place to plug in I didn't want a problem by the way the truck starts in 2 seconds :-). I believe it's really a preference at least in upstate New York we haven't gotten that cold yet we have been very lucky this winter but we have February to go and last year most days average for 3 weeks - 15 that's standing temperature not windchill I'll let you know how it starts on those days when I can't plug it in. I would think any full synthetic would help if you're not going to plug it in with the cold flow characteristics and film strength it made a big difference compare to stock oil 10w - 30 that came in my 2016 take care
Lead Driver
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 5,665
Likes: 164
From: Cartersville, Ga
I still plug mine in because at only 2 mins of idle time, the oil temp is at 100* and I'm ready to go. It also just "feels" better starting it after using the block heater on a cold morning.
Hotshot
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 10,107
Likes: 96
From: Hempstead, TX
Nothing like having warm air blowing through the registers when you climb in to leave, versus having to wait 20 minutes for it. I plug in when the forecast calls for chilly weather - even though we will NEVER see temps down to the recommended plug in temp.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,180
Likes: 83
From: Georgia
Dang it!! You guys are making me regret not taking time to put my block heater on!!!! For 24 years I ran volunteer fire and rescue(as well as full time for 30 now) and always used block heaters every night below 40*. One of the reasons my trucks have lasted so long. I have a factory plug and harness, just haven't taken the time to put it on yet.
Hotshot
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 10,107
Likes: 96
From: Hempstead, TX
40° is my magic number too Monty. I don't do it so much because I'm worried about the truck. I do it because I hate wearing a jacket while driving and by plugging in, I have warm air immediately after start.
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,664
Likes: 188
If I had a steady schedule I'd plug in. It get's below freezing here many many nights. But I never plug in..I use the remote to start and run for 20 minutes.
I've never had issues with the engine etc really..I traded my 2011 in at 125k and still ran good..
I've never had issues with the engine etc really..I traded my 2011 in at 125k and still ran good..
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Tuned
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 473
Likes: 45
From: Berryville, AR
Thanks seine!
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,180
Likes: 83
From: Georgia
There is write up here, maybe in the tech folder, about how to do it. I've still got to do this. Jack up front and remove right front fender liner. Locate the plug on the right rear of the block. When you remove it, coolant WILL pour out. From what's been written before, they say loosen the plug and have the element in your dominant hand. OH, cover the starter with a plastic bag. Quickly remove plug and insert element and torque to spec. Somewhere around 10-15 lbs I believe. Then run the cord to the bumper along right side of frame. Holes are already there.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,536
Likes: 200
From: southeast PA
I'm with Doug and Monty on this one, below 40 my truck is always plugged in. Hate getting in the truck with a jacket then taking it off in 10 minutes. I don't use a timer because I never know when I'm going to drive the truck, it's not a DD so it gets plugged in Friday night and stays plugged in til Sunday afternoon when I unplug it and plug my work truck in. If I forget to plug it in, no biggie. But as posted earlier warm starts are easier on the engine, better for fuel economy, and make the driver happier.
More Turbo
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 572
Likes: 29
There is write up here, maybe in the tech folder, about how to do it. I've still got to do this. Jack up front and remove right front fender liner. Locate the plug on the right rear of the block. When you remove it, coolant WILL pour out. From what's been written before, they say loosen the plug and have the element in your dominant hand. OH, cover the starter with a plastic bag. Quickly remove plug and insert element and torque to spec. Somewhere around 10-15 lbs I believe. Then run the cord to the bumper along right side of frame. Holes are already there.
I only lost 10 OZ. Max., it doesn't gush out too bad.
A good cleaning before you start would be a good idea.
Elder User
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 460
Likes: 5
From: Central BC, Canada EHH
If I'm parked outside, -10c/14f is usually the point I'll plug in, truck is usually in a heated garage. Never idles more than 5-10 minutes, supplemental heater takes care of defrosting.
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