Block Heater Install????

[88GW]

I purchased a tank style block heater. My question is in regard to the actual "plumbing" of the lines. My understanding is that: 1. I must tap into the block drain and connect this to the bottom of the block heater. 2. I must tap into the heater core hose that connects to under the water pump using the Y connector supplied which then also taps into the top of the block heater. 3. I must mount the block heater as low as possible. Does this sound right? (If you can understand my description).

[88GW]

anyone

[oddfire]

on my 76 cherokee, I tapped into the block drain plug just behind the starter, that goes to the bottom of the tank, I mounted the tank on the frame opposite the starter, and tapped into the heater hose that goes to the back of the motor on top. That goes to the top of the tank. It kicks ^%$, but I dont think I'll need it now that im not in Tahoe anymore...................phil

[ September 30, 2003, 09:19 PM: Message edited by: oddfire ]

[88GW]

Phil. Awesome thats what I tought but wanted to make sure. I bought a 1500 Watt unit and plan on placing it on a timer so it doesn't run all night. Stupid question, is there anyway that I can not drain the radiator without making too much of a mess?

[88GW]

Phil. How long did you let yours run for and what was the engine temp on initial start up? Thanks Lou

[oddfire]

Sorry, the block drain I tapped into is directly above and slightly in front of the starter. I also had a 1500 watt unit, and had it hooked to a timer and had it set for an hour before I had to leave for work. The temp guage would read around 150 then, but in Tahoe in the winter, we got a lot of single digit temps in the mornings. You might have to play with the timer a bit to get it right. There is nothing like instant heat, much easier to start also. Three thing to be sure of, 1. make sure your timer is rated for 1500 watts, many arent. 2. keep your heavy duty extension cord as short as possible.
3. Plug into a GFIC outlet. No way to do it without draining, but with winter getting closer, its a good time to change the coolant anyhow. Good luck..........................phil