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Block heater question

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Old Jan 11, 2004 | 01:53 PM
  #1  
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richep
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Block heater question

I have a factory block heater on my 2001 Ranger that i started using this week because the temp got below zero. Do these use a lot of electricity? I don't want a suprise on my electric bill.
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 02:57 AM
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dcarhart
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From: mid coast, Maine
this is the 2nd year I've used my block heater in my 01 ranger XLT. I plug it in everytime the temps drop below 20 degrees, and I haven't noticed any jumps in the electric bill.

Dave
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 07:38 AM
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dbradey
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I am in Ottawa Canada and use my block every day. It has been getting down to -31 C ( -24 F) and find the truck turns over easily. If I am not mistaken they use about 650 wattts so about half the power of a hair dryer. I have mine on a timer which turns on at 4:00 AM and off at 8:30 AM. If you are worried about cost I suggest you put it on a timer.

I also have a battery blanket (heater) which is great. If it gets cold where you are you'll never regret a battery blanket.
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 09:42 AM
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rangersvt04
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how much is it to install a block heater? or can i get one and install it my self?? its a bout -10 below at nights. ware can i get a battery blanket?
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 02:59 PM
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My factory heater comes with a battery blanket.
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 08:13 PM
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dcarhart
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Originally posted by rangersvt04
how much is it to install a block heater? or can i get one and install it my self?? its a bout -10 below at nights. ware can i get a battery blanket?
I had mine installed at the dealership. It came with the battery warmer, and cost around $60.00 if I remember right. We also had one installed in my wifes Jeep for around $40.00.

Dave
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 10:04 PM
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99xlt4.04x4
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Are all thes trucks diesel? The only thing i have ever heard of having blodk heaters are my dads Ford Dumptrucks. Unless it is REALLY cold, like10-15 below, you dont NEED a block heater. I mean you have antifreeze. Although it would be nice that your heater wouldnt take as long to warm up.
 
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Old Jan 12, 2004 | 11:22 PM
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i'm in alberta canada and only plug in when it's -30 c using a timer (2hrs before i need it) in colder weather it saves on some wear and tear and you get heat sooner to keep your windows clear
 
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Old Jan 13, 2004 | 03:04 PM
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Im in north carolina. Today it is about 60 degrees +. So i dont need one, but i can see why you do. Thats cold!!!
 
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Old Jan 13, 2004 | 04:00 PM
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01_4cyl
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All you guys who live in the north, like me: leave a bottle of oil outside overnight in -10 or -20 degree weather. In the morning try to pour that oil out. Then think of your poor truck when you start it up cold. Block heaters are a good investment.
 
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Old Jan 13, 2004 | 05:34 PM
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I agree, at -5 my truck cranks much slower without heater plugged in. It's like pumping molasses.
 
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