When To Plug In?
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Junior User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 55
Likes: 0
From: long island
When To Plug In?
Is there generally a rule of thumb as to temperature on when you use the heater or not? Got my first Diesel Today and Love it already 2000 F350 DUALLY, 51K MI, CREW CAB, LEATHER, REMOTE START, LARIAT LE, GAUGES, THE WORKS..IM ALL GIDDYYYY
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 65
Likes: 0
From: Colorado
I think most guys will say about 30 degrees, as it may be easier on the starter and the batteries plus you'll get heat sooner. I use Rotella 5w-40 in the winter and I don't worry about it unless the temps are near 0 with no starting problems. You will only need to plug it in for about 3 hrs. more than that is wasting electricity and using the heater more than needed. Buy an outdoor timer to plug in and set for the amount and time for usage. I hope this helps and I'm sure your going to enjoy the Stroker.
Cross-Country
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 97
Likes: 16
From: Round Mountain, NV
I agree with the posts above but would like to add a few details. The heater draws about 1500 watts, which is a lot and will definitely run up the power bill if you leave it plugged in a lot. I bought a cheap timer rated at 1875 watts for about $10 at Wal-Mart and I set it to come on 3 hours before I plan on driving. I use it if I think the temps will get below freezing.
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
Buy a timer and test hours on vs. temp with it. My 1995 (sits outside with no covering) does not like any temps around 20 degrees. Did all standard fuel stuff. I have a timer set for 3 hours and it still wouldn't start at 20 or below. I had to test with 'hours on' vs. 'will it start efficiently'. I started at leaving plugged in all night for cold spells. I still do for anywhere around single digits. We have cheap electicity with OG&E, though. The month I left pluged in all night for cold nights cost only an extra $6 on bill. That is with the 3 hours netted out.
Just a long message to say; buy a timer, set for 3 hours, may have to extend hours according to PU, and don't waste electricity by leaving plugged in all night unless you have to.
Just a long message to say; buy a timer, set for 3 hours, may have to extend hours according to PU, and don't waste electricity by leaving plugged in all night unless you have to.
