Block Heater Recommendations

[Erich_870]

I plan to install some sort of heating device to alleviate my need to warm up my rig in the morning. It typically reaches -10F at my home during the winter, plus I plan to take trips further north where they have really cold temps.

I've been looking at all the options and here's what I've found.

Freeze Plug Block Heaters
Lower Radiator Hose Heater
Adhesive or Magnetic Pan Heaters
Dipstick Heaters


I'm looking to warm up the engine and transmission without burning gas. We have low electricity rates here, so I'm going to use green energy whenever possible :laugh:

What do you guys think the most reliable and effective systems are? Here's my take so far...

I've purchased the Lower Radiator Hose Heater from Shucks for ~$30, but I'm leery about cutting the lower hose and having two spots that could leak.

The freeze plug heater would require some major wrenching to get to the back rear plug, plus it is a risk for leaking too.

The adhesive pads are a given for the transmission, but will it warm the engine in the right spot?

They don't appear to make a dipstick heater for the 3.4L V-6.

Erich

[4runnerchevy]

I have only used the magnetic pan heaters, they work alright but I can see problems in an off-road rig. The one I used for an AR-250 gang mower, worked great, but it mowed golf courses. I could see a sharp jolt making it come loose. If your not worried then I would go for it. I think you should heat the engine not the tranny.

[Erich_870]

I have only used the magnetic pan heaters, they work alright but I can see problems in an off-road rig. The one I used for an AR-250 gang mower, worked great, but it mowed golf courses. I could see a sharp jolt making it come loose. If you’re not worried then I would go for it. I think you should heat the engine not the tranny.


I saw a magnetic pad yesterday, and it was HUGE, so that's definitely not going to work. I plan to heat the both the engine and the tranny so they are ready to go and the fluids aren’t too viscous. My question is if a pad on the oil pan will warm it enough, or do I need to heat the coolant instead.

Erich

[4runnerchevy]

My thinking is that you are heating the oil and the motor around it. At startup the oil goes everywhere. The water takes its time and is controlled by a thermostat, and bypass port. Do what fits, it sounds like a coolant one is what you might be looking for.

[Erich_870]

My thinking is that you are heating the oil and the motor around it. At start-up the oil goes everywhere. The water takes its time and is controlled by a thermostat, and bypass port. Do what fits, it sounds like a coolant one is what you might be looking for.



That is a good point. The coolant won't be circulating when the engine is off, so having warm oil would be better for protecting against wear then having cold oil and a slightly warm block. The glue-on pan heater would be much simpler to install anyway :wrenchin:

Not having to drain the coolant system is also a slight plus.

Erich

[Erich_870]

Any other opinions out there? Which is more important to heat, coolant or oil?

Erich

[MTL_4runner]

I'd just put in a freeze plug heater like what came installed as OEM up here in Canada. They are a bit more trouble to install but they won't leak if you do it right. I can post a pic of what's on mine if you need it.....the engine is being swapped right now.

[corax]

FWIW even if you do find one, avoid the dipstick heater - I've heard stories of the heating element getting too hot and burning the oil. Just stories I've heard . . .

[Erich_870]

I'd just put in a freeze plug heater like what came installed as OEM up here in Canada. They are a bit more trouble to install but they won't leak if you do it right. I can post a pic of what's on mine if you need it.....the engine is being swapped right now.


Pics would be great! I'm just a little leary about how much work it will take to make enough room to get to the right freeze plug and then getting it out. Reference material would make it easier.



FWIW even if you do find one, avoid the dipstick heater - I've heard stories of the heating element getting too hot and burning the oil. Just stories I've heard . . .


I wouldn't install a dipstick heater either way. I agree with your concern.

Erich