engine block heater - Ford F150 Forum

teemgreen99 · 11-18-2009, 08:48 PM

ok i got a 03 250 with 6 litre deisel it came with engine block heater but how and when do i use it?

hcbph · 11-20-2009, 03:57 PM

I used to have 2 GM diesels. I put a timer in the garage and had them go on about 4 hours before I had to leave when the temp got around 10-20 F. Don't know if was required, but it made them start alot easier.

mitchalvin · 12-11-2009, 01:15 AM

Use a timer to help cut down on the electrical bill and save the block heater. Most will heat up the engine within 2 hours, any longer and you are just keeping the block warm. While there is nothing wrong with keeping the block warm you are not gaining anything by doing so. If my memory serves me right the 6.0 has a 1500 watt heater in it so make sure that the extension cord, outlet, and timer if used will carry that much current.

sivedog · 12-13-2009, 08:37 PM

You can also get a flat adhesive heater for the bottom of the oil pan. They use less watts and can heat -40 degree oil to 160 degrees rather quickly. These types of heaters have come a long way in the last 10-20 years. Amazon carries them, Katz and Wolverine also. I have always used the tank type heaters, but now have three newer outfits that have no block heater of any kind. I ordered up 4 of the flat heaters. You can even get them for ATVs.