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will this block heater work?

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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 08:45 AM
  #1  
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will this block heater work?

i'm lookin for a block heater for my 88 7.3 and came up with a ZeroStart lower radiator hose heater, i was just wondering if an 1 3/4" heater would work in the 2" lower hose without restricting it too much. also FWIW here is the item number for the heater im looking at, (130157120346) if anyone else is looking or has any suggestions LMK, i plan to buy one before the end of the month and so far this one wins hands down. and i couldnt find anything of relevance with a search.

Thank you
Andy
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 10:29 AM
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Why not use the correct block heater..... Notice the similarity of the numbers.......

Ford.. Part number is 605-3137 (box says heavy duty heater 1000W)


NAPA
Item#: BK 6053137 Price: $ 41.49

Attributes: Engine Heater (Freeze Plug Type)
Freeze Plug Size: 1.5''
Cord Length: 5 ft
Recommended Location: Varies by Application
Additional Contents: Engine Heater, Cordset, Plug Protector, Installation Instructions
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 10:35 AM
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how hard is it to get the freeze plugs out without damaging anything? this is my first diesel, so i am just trying to get by on what little i know (as if it doesnt show...lol) but i will look into this one, thank you very much!
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 11:22 AM
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You most likely will need to remove the starter, RH rear of engine..... Do you not already have a BH there most came with them...... check for wires etc.
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 05:18 PM
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Dude, your avatar almost made me smack the screen to kill the bug. What a trip.I better get another beer.
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 06:33 PM
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Originally Posted by PLC7.3
You most likely will need to remove the starter, RH rear of engine..... Do you not already have a BH there most came with them...... check for wires etc.
i havent seen anything resembling a block heater yet, but i also didnt know where to look, i was using my dads 00 PSD to compare where the wires would be coming from, but saw none, ill check there though, thank you!
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 11:17 PM
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update, i found out that i do indeed have a block heater, the cord was coiled and ziptied to the engine skid plate. since i have a hard start issue due to the glow plugs not quite working (im going to rewire them to a push button switch in the near future) i went ahead and plugged it in. will the engine be warm to the touch if the engine heater works? or are there other ways to tell? PLC7.3, i really appreciate your help, thank you!
 
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Old Oct 6, 2007 | 11:35 PM
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Yeah, you will know it if it works. I think mine kept my engine temp about 160 when it was 10 degrees outside
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 07:59 AM
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Make sure you use a good, heavy extension cord. Block heaters do pull a lot of juice. When you plug it in (assuming the engine is cold) you will usually hear an electrical snap in the plug.

I've had 12ga. extension cords melt through a foot of snow overnight. Just to give an idea of how much electrical power a block heater uses.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 09:14 AM
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ok, i heard the snap when i plugged it in (i think) the true test is comin up shortly, when i see how easy she starts and go to Cincinnati...lol
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 11:22 AM
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With your head by the passenger side front wheel, you should also hear the block heater working.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 02:10 PM
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well, the block heater works, but even with it plugged in overnight i still had a cold start issue, looks like its time to rewire the glow plugs and/or replace them.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 02:38 PM
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If you had trouble with it starting after the heater was plugged in, you have other problems such as air in the lines, or a weak starter, or a weak lift pump, or an IP problem. I am not saying that you don't have glow plug problems, but with the heater plugged in, you will not need the glow plugs.

I would look at the fuel return lines at the injectors first. If they are grey, replace them. Lines, caps, clamps and "O" rings. I got the kit from an injector shop for like 30 bucks. Your local IH dealer should have what you need or you can get it online. Search this forum for hard start, or air leak, or return lines and you will find more information than you can shake a stick at.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 03:10 PM
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also, closely check your positive battery cable. if the rubber insulation is cracked, and the wires inside are visible and green where it meets the battery lug, your primary cable is bad. this will give you fits when trying to start. i just did mine, and realized after putting the new cable on i did not need the new starter that is now sitting on the shelf as spare parts.
 
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Old Oct 7, 2007 | 03:12 PM
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what does the grey lines mean? would it work if i got some hardline for brakes and used that? or would be the copper get too hot and not hold up? im not sure if there is an IH dealer local to Indianapolis, but i have o rings and whatnot in a kit that the PO had with the truck from doing the head gaskets...i'll get a pic of the engine...it should tell more than i can...
 
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