Kinda figured a real long time. I need to know as I use mine quite a bit as I keep putting off new injectors.

 

The life of the element is directly related to the maintenance of the coolant. I have changed some where there literally was no element left as electrolysis and pH had eaten them away. Mine is 18 years old and looks almost new.

 

Usually the end of the cord will wear out first I have had to put new ends on my current truck and my older 95.

 

The newer block heaters on my John Deere chore tractors last two years max being plugged in for +/-20 hours a day 4-5 months or year and look like new when they fail. When I need the tractor I need the tractor so a timer isn't an option and ether is only for emergencies (can't use it in the newer stuff without a hassle anyways).

They used to last much longer 10+ years ago. Which reminds me I need to get another spare one, the 6430 is due for a new one this winter.

For an example of the older block heaters lasting longer I have an old Oliver super 55 that has block heater that has been plugged in longer than I've been alive and still keeps the engine warmed up to just below operating temperature on the gauge. crazy.

 

I've eaten 1 element and two cords since 2010. I have been more diligent about using the heater more strategically since the last cord replacement - but the plug end still craps out a lot. I found a locking-end extension cord - this should help. It also helps if we had the plug kept in a clean environment when not plugged in - maybe something like a plug protector, or something made for a marine environment.

 

I agee Rich. Had something similar back before I changed bumpers. I think I might pick this up,
MARINCO 12VBR 3-WIRE CONNECTPRO RECEPTACLE

 

Never thought about them going bad. I need to first find mine, then remove it and check condition. I figure I will do a coolant change on it as its new to me.

 

i still have the original block heater in my 88 with 494k miles on it, and the original in the 02 with 189k on it.

 

I`m with ya Tom, original with 408k and 201k and going,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

 

The block heater will be just behind the oil filter iirc, I installed a noco plug pass through on the bumper of the truck, I may in wrap the plug (electric tape) and look into some type of plug enclosure to protect the head from the elements

 

14 yrs on original 2002 on timer 3 hrs before start time. Replaced plug 4 yrs ago. Make sure extension cord correct gauge for length.

 

Still have the same factory one in my 02 with 560,000 miles on it. I'm a wimp when it comes to cold weather so I use mine every winter so the heater works faster.

 

The best part is on those icy mornings when you leave the defroster dial set to on and windshield is nice an clear

 

yup. especially when you have to start the truck at 2 am to go plowing and do not have to wake the neighbors while it is warming up enough to defrost the windshield.
plug it in when going to bed, and hit the remote start when you get up. by the time you walk out the door 2-3 minutes later, the windows are clear.

 

It depends on how much you use it. I just re-sealed my oil cooler a few months ago. I'm not sure if the original owner every used it but I haven't. Pulled it out and it looks brand new (296K miles). SoCal doesn't have too many days that I would even consider it. Since I live in a townhouse I can't park anywhere near enough to my place to run a cord to the heater anyway.