We found an engine block heater on our 2001 F150 with the 5.4 . It looks like a stock install

When I plugged it in I could actually hear it working, kinda freaked me out but just wanted to check with others.

we plug our trucks in at work but not sure I have actually heard anything

Is this just a coil inside the block heating the antifreeze / oil

I figure plugging it in for him will help with warming up the truck sooner for him to get to school

any thoughts appreciated

thanks

 

Wouldn't ever use one myself, - they can be problematic (lots of leaking issues) and you don't really need one for this engine. Diesels with much larger crank cases yes, but not these unless your in extreme cold climates IMO.

 

This morning is the first time in a few years where we had -9 weather. Went out to start the Fusion, and the thing was cranky and didn't want to turn over fully. Three rev and it would battery click. I threw on a jumper pack and it started right up. If it would of had the heater on it, it would of been a piece of cake to start. I'll have check the cable connections first, but the battery is older than dirt.

I jumped in Blue and she fired right off. Looks like the Fusion is due for a new battery with some serious CCA's. This year looks like it is battery replacement season. My Mustang, lil Red, and the Fusion. I wonder if I can buy in bulk. lol

 

thanks guys I went back out with a light did not see any leaks. It does make noise which I think is just the coil heating the fluid. I read some guys use a timer have the turn on a few hours prior to when you start up. I unplugged it until I get more feedback opinions

We plug in our diesel truck and leave it on for weeks with no issues but that is a new truck also at work

 

I might need one for Friday morning, gonna be freezing azz cold. Like 30°. Will be the coldest weather in South MS in 3 years.

 

They make universal ones that go in-line with the bottom radiator hose. There an absolute pain and tend to be cheaply made and leak. I believe it just heats up the coolant.

 

The noise is just the heater warming up. We have them on everything up here.

 

^^^This!


If you can't hear it when you plug it in it probably isn't working. They do leak over time like Jbrew mentioned, it has a rubber seal that rots with age and heat. When that happens they are not too hard to replace. Every vehicle sold here comes with them factory.

 

You can get aftermarket heaters that replace the oil dipstick too. Keeps the lower end warm just fine.

My step-son had to get one for his vehicle when the Air Force transferred him from Arizona to Fairbanks Alaska.

Careful what you get though. He went economy and it only lasted one winter. That should help with the Fusion and cold mornings.

 

It is supposed to get below 60deg to night. Do you guys think I need one of them there block heater thingies?