when to plug in
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New User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
when to plug in
Hi Folks,
I am thinking about buying a 200 f 250 with a 7.3. I am wondering do you have to plug in the block heater when it is zero or below or is it just a good idea. Thanks very much in advance.
I am thinking about buying a 200 f 250 with a 7.3. I am wondering do you have to plug in the block heater when it is zero or below or is it just a good idea. Thanks very much in advance.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 13,653
Likes: 6
From: Cabot, Arkansas
If the batteries and glow plug system are in good operating condition you shouldn't ever have to plug it in....but it sure makes life easier when you do. I plug mine in for a few hours in the morning anytime it's going to be below freezing.
It's nice to be able to jump in and crank it up with the heater already blowing warm.
It's nice to be able to jump in and crank it up with the heater already blowing warm.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,605
Likes: 1
From: Elkhorn, WI
if your glow plug system is working correctly you will not have to plug it in. mine started at -15 this morning because i forgot to plug it in but i ususally plug it in if it gets below freezing. it will let you know its not happy starting when its that cold out and it is easier on the engine when you plug it in because it thins the oil to get to small areas quicker. i have mine on a timer that starts 3 hours before i leave so it is not taking electricity all night. it will not make any more of a difference if it is plugged in for more than 3 hours. they will draw about 1000 watts and the heater in the cab will warm up the truck quicker
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
From: St. Louis
I plug mine in whenever they predict 25 degrees or colder. It starts just fine down to about 10 above without the heater but it's easier on the motor and starter, helps fuel mileage a bit and gets the cabin up to a comfy temp quicker on those cold mornings.
Senior User
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 129
Likes: 0
From: Longmont co.
Just something to think about. I have a customer that drive rigs for a living. He tells me he always plugs the truck in. I almost aways plug mine in if it's below 30. All you need to do is listen to if it's been pluged are not. The hammering can't be good !!!!Do you and your engine a treat plug it in. It cant cost that much in elect. You can bet mine is plug in now -5 in Coloardo tonight..
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 703
Likes: 1
From: Middle of a field CT
i plug it in if the weatherguesser says it will be below zero
no problems with this method
I am by no means an expert
no problems with this method
I am by no means an expert
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14,582
Likes: 12
From: 21791
i guess my glow plug system is good. it is 8* out and i just went out to my truck and let the glow plugs run once, and 5 seconds of cranking and she fired right up. sure she didnt like it but i made her do it anyway. 30-45 secs of blue smoke and now i can hear her purring smoothly on high idle. 
