Engine Block Heater

Originally Posted by KanataZ

I assumed the OP had a US model despite being located in Edmonton. Otherwise, if it's a Canadian Z, the block heater is standard equipment.

My understand is that block heaters warm the block not the oil - they attempt to warm the antifreeze/coolant not the oil. The oil may get some minimal residual heating with a block heater but that is not the design. Prolonged use of a BH will also shorten the life of antifreeze.

The block has a port to install the block heater. All model car engines have this port and it is simply plugged when a BH is not installed. Installation is relatively simple. Remove the plug, insert the BH -usually a small tube in the shape of a long U.

The BH cord is attached to the BH unit and can be removed or replaced easily once you locate the unit on the block. It just plugs into the prongs on the BH.

A BH very handy when temps are below -20C. Above that I don't bother. Back in the old days of hard starting cars, they were virtually a requirement to operate a car in any cold climate (above or below the 49th parallel. So was a can of carb cleaner or anything else that was flammable to spray into the throat of a dead beast. Always brought them to life and made them breathe fire.