Block heater trouble
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 10,977
Likes: 5
From: Lancaster, Pa.
FTE Remembers
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 9,549
Likes: 14
From: Payson, AZ
sdunn, Welcome to 
I just ohmed mine out at the plug end and got 14.4 ohms.
I'm guilty of that as well. 
Now when I plug in I have a red nylon strap I wrap around the steering wheel. Like tying a string on your finger so you won't forget something. Haven't driven away with it plugged in since.
Now when I plug in I have a red nylon strap I wrap around the steering wheel. Like tying a string on your finger so you won't forget something. Haven't driven away with it plugged in since.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 6,708
Likes: 5
From: Kiowa CO
I haven't driven off with it plugged in (yet...) but I've tripped over it before. I need to get one of those Marine style plugs installed into the bumper. One of these days...
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/st...007000_225-7-0
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/st...007000_225-7-0
Lead Driver
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 7,406
Likes: 52
From: Wheatland, Mo
I haven't driven off with it plugged in (yet...) but I've tripped over it before. I need to get one of those Marine style plugs installed into the bumper. One of these days...
Onboard Charger Inlet
Onboard Charger Inlet
Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,265
Likes: 0
From: Metro Detroit, MI.
I just replaced the plug on mine. My problem area was right behind the plug. One wire split probably from the pulling. I went to Lowes one morning at work and got a replacement plug. Cost $2.87
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 6,708
Likes: 5
From: Kiowa CO
Not my idea but thought I would share. I'm a little goosey about drilling a hole in my bumper for it - some other FTE'ers have done it and it looks nice. I thinking about mounting it in the plastic underneath the bumper.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 864
Likes: 0
From: Fort Campbell, KY
Well to add, if of any value, I believe the failure of the plugs is not from the "use" of the plug, rather the cycling of the female receptacle flapping in the wind (literally 
.) Most of the "failures" I've seen and read about are shorts right behind the plug. As long as the jacket is in tact, "pulling" on the cord only pulls the jacket, however, even though the wire is stranded copper, it can only sustain a certain number of cycles. This is why from the factory that plug is well tucked behind the bumper. By fixing the receptacle to a part of the vehicle, you in essence have eliminated the cycling of the cable, and should enjoy YEARS of service (trouble free) from it. 
.) Most of the "failures" I've seen and read about are shorts right behind the plug. As long as the jacket is in tact, "pulling" on the cord only pulls the jacket, however, even though the wire is stranded copper, it can only sustain a certain number of cycles. This is why from the factory that plug is well tucked behind the bumper. By fixing the receptacle to a part of the vehicle, you in essence have eliminated the cycling of the cable, and should enjoy YEARS of service (trouble free) from it.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,678
Likes: 2
From: Rapid City SD
No ohms, hopefully it is just the cord that is bad. Will try replacing the end...
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,678
Likes: 2
From: Rapid City SD
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 10,977
Likes: 5
From: Lancaster, Pa.
Good idea. I usually throw the extension cord over my drivers side mirror, reminds me before getting in the truck..
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 6,708
Likes: 5
From: Kiowa CO
New User
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
thanks everyone for the help... the plug was the problem swapped it out last night nand was nice and toasty for my morning plowing today.. glad i jump on the band wagon for this site for all the great advice that is avaiable...
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 10,977
Likes: 5
From: Lancaster, Pa.
Be careful there buddy, lol..
This is the place to be, thats for sure and glad to have yaa aboard..
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 2,726
Likes: 5
From: Slatington, PA
IIRC, you can pick one up from your local International dealer for around $17, which is way cheaper then Ford. It plugs near the oil filter (look for the orange plug) and routes up to the front bumper.
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