Block heater NOT working
Tuned
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 429
Likes: 126
How to test an Engine Block Heater
How to test an Engine Block Heater;
Obtain a meter, preferably a Digital Volt Meter (DVM). Unplug the AC cord to the heating element from the wall outlet or extension cord and set your DVM to measure electrical resistance in OHMs. Now attach the meter test probes to the blades of the AC cord. If there is either an open circuit OL or a dead shorted circuit 0.01 to 0.1, then the heater is likely not working. If the displayed value is approximately 0.50 then it likely works. Note: If your DVM meter is not auto ranging, you may have to select the range manually to display the value correctly.
I'll check mine with my meter this evening and post a photo of the reading. I thought mine was bad until I realized the GFCI had tripped feeding the AC outlet. The freezing rain must have tripped it. I used to keep mine on a simple mechanical timer to come on for two to three hours before I left for work.
Obtain a meter, preferably a Digital Volt Meter (DVM). Unplug the AC cord to the heating element from the wall outlet or extension cord and set your DVM to measure electrical resistance in OHMs. Now attach the meter test probes to the blades of the AC cord. If there is either an open circuit OL or a dead shorted circuit 0.01 to 0.1, then the heater is likely not working. If the displayed value is approximately 0.50 then it likely works. Note: If your DVM meter is not auto ranging, you may have to select the range manually to display the value correctly.
I'll check mine with my meter this evening and post a photo of the reading. I thought mine was bad until I realized the GFCI had tripped feeding the AC outlet. The freezing rain must have tripped it. I used to keep mine on a simple mechanical timer to come on for two to three hours before I left for work.
Cargo Master
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,670
Likes: 974
From: Walpole, MA
Just some reference material for the future...
My block heater is returning an open circuit at the plug. I keep meaning to pull the cord off the element connectors to see if the element is burnt out or the cord isn't making contact. I would guess the cord isn't making contact but keep forgetting to check. Been rolling with the remote start and idle for 5 mins in single digit weather.
BTW, if you live where gas engines need block heaters you live in some cold country.
My block heater is returning an open circuit at the plug. I keep meaning to pull the cord off the element connectors to see if the element is burnt out or the cord isn't making contact. I would guess the cord isn't making contact but keep forgetting to check. Been rolling with the remote start and idle for 5 mins in single digit weather.
BTW, if you live where gas engines need block heaters you live in some cold country.
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FarmBoyFords
Pre-Power Stroke Diesel (7.3L IDI & 6.9L)
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Jan 5, 2012 07:28 PM
