V6 engine block heater install

fudge12

fudge12

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This morning I had a shocker when I saw the temp needle shot up to Hot after a few minutes of driving. I pulled over and noticed the coolant was frozen. After waiting for the engine heat to thaw it out, everything seems fine.

I went on eBay and saw a few block heaters for a rather cheap price. However I can't seem to find any documentation on where to install it. Any ideas?
 
Let me try to understand this - you're saying your antifreeze was frozen? Pretty sure where you are it's not cold enough to freeze, unless you're using more water than coolant.
 
Yes, I would replace the coolant with a good, working mixture instead.
 
Not too sure what the guys at the repair shop threw in after they cracked my degas bottle. It's -5 in my area at the moment. I'd like to do a coolant flush but it's too cold at the moment.

But I'd still like to do the block heater as a project during my time off.
 
its dangerous to continue to drive on it with poor coolant (in those temps)! I'd get it to ford for a flush ASAP if its to cold for you to do it (I wouldn't trust an independent shop to do it correctly)!!!
 
I'll check the hoses and degas bottle later today. As far as the block, only time can tell . How much does a coolant flush cost at the stealership?
 
usually have some type of winter special with it and an oil change for $150-200ish.. but that includes a 1,500 point inspection!!! (and how can you put a price on that) :D
 
Somehow I don't understand the sequence of events. You were driving it and the coolant froze? or was it frozen after you've parked it for a while. Hard to believe that while driving it the coolant freezes, the temp wouldn't shot up to Hot if it's freezing.
 
lincolnelite said:
Somehow I don't understand the sequence of events. You were driving it and the coolant froze? or was it frozen after you've parked it for a while. Hard to believe that while driving it the coolant freezes, the temp wouldn't shot up to Hot if it's freezing.
Click to expand...

I had the car parked up since 10PM last night, started it up at around 8:30AM.
 
fudge12 said:
Not too sure what the guys at the repair shop threw in after they cracked my degas bottle. It's -5 in my area at the moment. I'd like to do a coolant flush but it's too cold at the moment.

But I'd still like to do the block heater as a project during my time off.
Click to expand...

Engine block heaters are installed by removing an engine block blow out plug, visible from under engine on side off block, simple job to punch out thin metal disc, clean area. You will loose all anti-freeze. Engine block heater installs same hole, tightens with a single bolt, has a thick seal. If 1 is installed check it once a month after installation to ensure it is staying sealed after driving it awhile. Expansion & contraction of the engine block can cause a slight leak after 2-3 months, I know! After that no problems. Everyone uses them in upstate NY by Lake Champlain, as temps can reach 40-60 below wind chill! They last for years. Make sure only 50/50 anti-freeze mixture is obtained/used!
 
You need to get that coolant changed asap. If they decided to just throw plain water in and it gets cold enough, it can freeze and can wreak all kinds of havoc including cracking the block which calls for a brand new engine...
 
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