Block Heater Question

[newprot5fan]

Hey everyone
I just moved to Alberta and need to get a block heater put in my car. I know nothing about block heaters, what types there are, etc...

If I needed to get one, what kind do I get and do I get it from MAzda? I think I read there are different types?

Thanks for the help in advance!

 

[IslandP5]

Dunno about different types, but we asked the dealer in spring 2002 about getting one. He said it would be about $150 installed (that was a while back so I hope I remember it right). Didn't really get into a big conversation about it though.

 

[MarvinM02]

As a long time prairie resident i'm somewhat familiar with block heaters. First there are a few different types. One is a magnetic version that attaches to the underside of your oilpan, don't get it. Another is called an "inline coolant heater or inline heater. this is connected inline with one of your rad hoses and heats/circulates the coolant. It is very good, but some people have problems with leaks. Get it installed professionally. Last is the standard block heater which replaces a plug in your block. Again get it done at a reputable shop. Now for some other tips. Make sure you use 5W30 preferably synthetic. Also get a timer for your plug as the block heater only needs 2-3 hours to do its job, any longer just wasting electricity (green moment). Then if you don't have a garage get the black (-40 rated) outdoor extension cord, on second thought get 2 as you will drive off without unplugging it at least once. GET WINTER TIRES,and rims, they'll save you at least one deductible. That's all my winter advice. Welcome to the west.

 

[newprot5fan]

As a long time prairie resident i'm somewhat familiar with block heaters. First there are a few different types. One is a magnetic version that attaches to the underside of your oilpan, don't get it. Another is called an "inline coolant heater or inline heater. this is connected inline with one of your rad hoses and heats/circulates the coolant. It is very good, but some people have problems with leaks. Get it installed professionally. Last is the standard block heater which replaces a plug in your block. Again get it done at a reputable shop. Now for some other tips. Make sure you use 5W30 preferably synthetic. Also get a timer for your plug as the block heater only needs 2-3 hours to do its job, any longer just wasting electricity (green moment). Then if you don't have a garage get the black (-40 rated) outdoor extension cord, on second thought get 2 as you will drive off without unplugging it at least once. GET WINTER TIRES,and rims, they'll save you at least one deductible. That's all my winter advice. Welcome to the west.

haha, thanks for your response.

Can you tell me why to avoid the oil pan heater? That is one that was actually reccomended to me by a few people and the one I just bought(and realistically, the only thing I can afford). Its 100watts. I talked to a mazda mechanic and he also just suggested getting the oil pan heater (we actually don't have a mazda dealership here, but this guy used to work for them when they were here). I am in Medicine Hat.

I do have winter tires and rims, so that is good! Good call on the 2 cables!

Where in the Prairies are you?

 

[MarvinM02]

The magnetic one's don't seem to last/stay on for too long. There are some that glue on to the underside and they aren't as bad. For now also try to find some 0w30 for the winter. If you have the one that replaces the drain plug shouldn't be a problem. Wpg Manitoba.

 

[bucksatan]

I used to live up in northern ontario, and so got a block heater. I think it was about 120 installed from the dealer. From what it looked like when they showed me the part it looked like it fit into one of the frost plugs in the block itself, but I would have to look at it again to see where it actually fits into the engine. I would say one that actually fits into the coolant somewhere, not one that sticks onto the outside, better chance of it working for longer.

Oh, and if you have a standard transmission have fun on those really cold morning where it feels like you are shifting in a large block of hard cheese.

 

[kboutsider]

bucksatan that is exactly where it goes is into a frost plug on the block. It's a pain to do and a task i will never do again. I never put one on my P5 but on my old '95 cavy. LOL at your tranny comment it's funny 'cause it's true.

 

[newprot5fan]

HEy all,

I had the oil pan heater put in the other day and I am wondering if I need to somehow activate the silicone that he used to adhere it to the oil pan. He said he has done this many times before but he never mentioned about heating it up initially to make it adhere....I know some of you mentioned that should be done. SHould I do that?

Also, it is 100W (maybe 120volts). Since I don't want to cook the oil, is that safe to leave plugged in overnight or should it be done only a few hours before use?

THanks!