Block heater, need help

loren_5000 · #1 10-07-2005, 09:18 PM

How do I install a freeze plug block heater in my 93, euro?

jeffcoslacker · #2 10-08-2005, 03:09 AM

Pull a freeze plug, install heater....

Not trying to by a smartass, but if you are asking, you might wanna have someone else do it.

Or, look into a dipstick type heater element that you drop into the motor where the oil dipstick goes.

Anyhow, if you go with the freeze plug design, you'll have to remove one from the block, they are metal plugs press fitted into the engine casting, you remove them by drilling into them, then driving a tool (like a chisel) into the hole and prying them out. I assume the heater is contained in some kind of expansion plug that expands as you tighten it up?

Never seen one. Hopefully, I'll never live where I'd need one.

loren_5000 · #3 10-08-2005, 12:38 PM

Maby I should have worded it differently, I know how but I need to know where the freeze plugs are as well ass where to drain the antifreze from the engine.

loren_5000 · #4 10-08-2005, 12:40 PM

by the way the engine is a 3.1 liter v6.

richtazz · #5 10-08-2005, 01:03 PM

Teh freeze plugs are on teh side of the block, and are about 1-1/2" in diameter. There are two bolts in the block, about in the center(for and aft-wise) just above the oil pan rail. Remove these bolts and you can get almost all the coolant out(vs about 70-75% via radiator draincock method).

jeffcoslacker · #6 10-08-2005, 02:58 PM

Here's a pic of a 3.1 that's seen better days

You can see one freeze plug at about 2 o'clock to the oil filter. Round silver job, looks like a new one.

loren_5000 · #7 10-10-2005, 01:31 PM

Ok and in order to install it do i have to tip the engine forwards or do I get under the car?

jeffcoslacker · #8 10-10-2005, 01:40 PM

That one in the pic is on the front (radiator) side of the motor. From underneath and with the oil filter removed, you'd probably have enough room to work.

loren_5000 · #9 10-10-2005, 01:51 PM

so does it make a difference if i put it in the front or back because in the instructions it says to put it in the back

richtazz · #10 10-10-2005, 04:12 PM

all of the freeze plugs in the side of the block are the same size, you just need to find the one that's leaking and replace it.

Schurkey · #11 10-11-2005, 08:05 AM

Sure, all of the freeze plugs are the same size, but what's BEHIND the freeze plugs is different: You need enough room to fit the heating element into the water jacket.

It "might" be that the rear plug is the only one that doesn't have something in the way of the element. The instructions will tell you which way to face the element, and which hole to use.

The heater is sealed with an O-ring. Not an expansion plug. Once you get the old plug out, you clean the hole with emery cloth so it's nice and pristine, then pop the heater in with finger pressure. There is a lock tab that will hold the heater in place. It is critical that you get the lock tab installed properly AND TORQUE THE RETAINING NUT TO SPEC. You can cook your engine if you get it to temperature and the plug pops out due to radiator cap pressure. You will instantly lose about 3/4 of your coolant, and your rear wheels will be driving over the very slick puddle--no good for traction.

I've installed dozens of heaters, but I don't remember putting one in a 3.1. I'm told the 3.4 DOHC is a real tough one, but the 3.1 isn't too bad.

This is an excellent time to flush your coolant and refill with fresh, by the way.

Schurkey · #12 10-11-2005, 08:07 AM

Oh, yeah. You want a heater with a DETACHABLE cord, NOT one with a cord hardwired into the heater. So forget about buying a Katz brand heater.

The biggest problem with heaters is that sooner or later, the cord gets damaged. A new cord is only a few dollars and saves all the labor of having to replace the whole unit.

jeffcoslacker · #13 10-11-2005, 09:15 AM

I guess that also the rear side would be less affected by wind chill, etc, being somewhat more sheltered. Might help it maintain temp without overworking it.

loren_5000 · #14 10-13-2005, 07:35 PM

I have another question, how the hell do I get to the rear freeze plug to install the heater?

comptech_69 · #15 10-14-2005, 06:34 PM

fukk a block heater, get a tank-type heater. I have one on my '91. It's 1.5 Kw of sheer heat. It installes in your coolant line to your heater core so you keep it plugged in and it circulates hot coolant throughout your engine/heater/radiator so you have like instant heat when you start up your car. I highly reccomend one!

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