Block Heater - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

1STtimePRo'71 · 02-18-2005, 09:04 AM

Something Else I just noticed on my newely purchased truck, is a block heater. I realize that one of the PO must have installed this as it's not listed in the options tag in the glove box. Is there a way that I could test the heater to make sure that it is operating properly? Other than plugging it in and seeing what happens. I'd rather not let it set overnight thinking that it works and have a burnt up truck in the morning. I relize that many of you wouldnt have the use for a block heater considering you US location but I'm just looking for a few good ideas on the matter. Aside from checking the wires really well what could I do?

Longhorn Man · 02-18-2005, 09:09 AM

Grab a multi meter and do an Ohms check. There should be continuity with a little resistance, not an open circuit. If it tests out good, and the cord is good, then it has about a 99% chance of working.
Best to plug these into a timer set to turn on an hr or so before your normal departure time. From what I understand, they suck up some power.

1STtimePRo'71 · 02-18-2005, 09:15 AM

Thanks Andy, I think thats a good Idea with the timer.

**StingRay** · 02-18-2005, 10:55 AM

I have always found that if you listen carefully you can hear when a block heater is working.

02-18-2005, 09:04 AM	#1
1STtimePRo'71 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Lake Crystal, MN Posts: 656	Block Heater Something Else I just noticed on my newely purchased truck, is a block heater. I realize that one of the PO must have installed this as it's not listed in the options tag in the glove box. Is there a way that I could test the heater to make sure that it is operating properly? Other than plugging it in and seeing what happens. I'd rather not let it set overnight thinking that it works and have a burnt up truck in the morning. I relize that many of you wouldnt have the use for a block heater considering you US location but I'm just looking for a few good ideas on the matter. Aside from checking the wires really well what could I do? __________________ -Cory 1967 2 Wheel Chevy

02-18-2005, 09:15 AM	#3
1STtimePRo'71 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Lake Crystal, MN Posts: 656	Thanks Andy, I think thats a good Idea with the timer. __________________ -Cory 1967 2 Wheel Chevy

02-18-2005, 10:55 AM	#4
StingRay Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Saskatoon,SK,Canada Posts: 2,476	I have always found that if you listen carefully you can hear when a block heater is working. __________________ Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada

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02-18-2005, 09:09 AM	#2
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,690	Grab a multi meter and do an Ohms check. There should be continuity with a little resistance, not an open circuit. If it tests out good, and the cord is good, then it has about a 99% chance of working. Best to plug these into a timer set to turn on an hr or so before your normal departure time. From what I understand, they suck up some power.



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