Block or dipstick heater?

[gumby_ct]

Anyone use either an oil dipstick or block heater? Or have any recommendations? I am calling the kind that goes into the radiator hose a block heater.

Getting that time here in CT - overnight temps down in the teens. Thinking about going to 5-20 at next oil change. Also, I am in the habit of using a piece of cardboard to restrict airflow to the radiator when temps get below freezing. Any thoughts on that?
Thanks,
Gumby_CT

[unclebubbles]

Originally Posted by gumby_ct

Anyone use either an oil dipstick or block heater? Or have any recommendations? I am calling the kind that goes into the radiator hose a block heater.

Getting that time here in CT - overnight temps down in the teens. Thinking about going to 5-20 at next oil change. Also, I am in the habit of using a piece of cardboard to restrict airflow to the radiator when temps get below freezing. Any thoughts on that?
Thanks,
Gumby_CT

I have used both, and installed some for other people. Personally, i prefer the radiator hose mounted heater, and most customers do. I have friends that live in the cold country, that use both. The hose mounted heater will heat the whole block, and if its a big enough unit, the heater will actually blow warm air on a cold start. Mine is a 600w unit, and it will keep the water between 80 and 100 degrees, but that depends on just how cold it is, we seldom get in the teens here. It will pay for itself in fuel savings, especially on older carbureted vehicles. Nothing wrong with the cardboard, ive lived in the cold country, and used it myself. Every little bit helps, just dont forget to take it out on the warm days, like i have on occasion. lol Hope the diagrams on the cruise helped. Looks like it would be a simple matter of rerouting the feed wire, to key on hot. Good luck
Later
Ed
.

[gumby_ct]

Ok, took a trip to the parts store. The guy says the magnetic type has to be removed before you drive. Don't like that idea. He had the oil stick type $14. It is WAY to looong (24") for the Metro and NOT long enuff for F150 - go figure. He also had the lower radiator hose type $20. I bought both, made by KAT'S by Five Star Mfg. Co.

After getting home, I am wondering if anyone makes one to go in the heater hose. It would likely be much easier to install. If so, can you recommend a source? Is that how the tank heaters install? Inline with the heater hose? Does anyone know?

Thanks,
Gumby_CT

Ed,
Thanks for the diagrams. These old eyes had some trouble (even with a magnifier) trying to read them. Plus I am not really sure even where to find the wires or the Speed Control Module to trace the wires.
Thanks Again