Where do I get a block Heater? (Anchorage, Fairbanks: purchase, live)

[linz98144]

Hello, recently moved to Anchorage from th south.

I've seen several posts about block heaters: what they do, who needs them, etc... but I can't seem to find information on where to get one.

Could anyone recommend a good place that is not too expensive? Thanks

[Barkingowl]

//www.city-data.com/forum/alask...ck-heater.html

[starlite9]

Originally Posted by linz98144

Hello, recently moved to Anchorage from th south.

I've seen several posts about block heaters: what they do, who needs them, etc... but I can't seem to find information on where to get one.

Could anyone recommend a good place that is not too expensive? Thanks

Any auto parts store, Fred's, Sears, Wally World...

When it is sub zero, and your oil is like chocolate pudding, the engine won't turn over fast enough to start. The Block heater heats the block to where it will start.

A good oil pan heater don't hurt either, and they are easy to install at a shop if you are out of your league in these matters.

[BudinAk]

It doesn't hurt to get one of them wrap-around battery heaters too, while yer at it...


Bud

[RayinAK]

If you have a vehicle that's still under warranty, let the dealer install the block heater so you don't void the warranty. A block heater installation requires that you drain the anti-freeze from the block, and then remove the correct freeze plug from the block. The correct block heater is pretty close to the OD of the freeze plug. The heater has a large O-ring, and an anchor. You have to lubricate the O-ring with antifreeze, gently install the heater on the block with the heating element in the correct direction (in accordance to the installation instructions), and then tighten the anchor's screw so that the prongs or legs of the anchor spread-out across the freeze plug hole inside the block. I can do this work with my eyes closed, but if you haven't done such before, don't do it now. It's very possible for a block heater to fall-out of the freeze-plug hole when you are driving and the anti-freeze is pressurized if the work is done improperly. For that reason alone, I let the dealer be responsible for any damage to the motor.

After the heater is installed, then you plug the included extension cord to the heater. The next step is to route the heater's extension cord away from fuel and oil lines, and from moving parts, belts, etc. You can use plastic wire ties to hold the extension cord in place.

[Floyd_Davidson]

Originally Posted by BudinAk

It doesn't hurt to get one of them wrap-around battery heaters too, while yer at it...


Bud

For just a heater, a 25 watt pad placed under the battery is better.

But it's best to install a 1 amp trickle charger. The charge actually puts more heat into the battery than a heater does, plus in insures a full charge is always available.

[Nephler]

Just make sure your battery is in good condition, your anti-freeze is up to where it should be for this area and you should be fine. I've lived in this cold a climate all my life and have never needed a block heater. Now, if you were to be up near Fairbanks, that may be a different story.

[AlaskaErik]

For Anchorage I would recommend a block heater. A battery blanket is overkill for Anchorage, although needed in Fairbanks. If your battery is over five years old, consider getting a new one. I bought mine right after a big freeze. All the stores sold out, so after they restocked, all the batteries had just been manufactured. You don't want to get a battery that's been sitting on the shelf for a year or two.

[JavaPhil]

The shelf life of a battery after manufacture is 6 months without a refresh charge. Period. Any battery has a date code stamped into the case or label somewhere. And if you purchase a battery, ask to see it. If the code is not easily translateable (ie. MMYY) have the dealer verify the code prior to the sale. Most reliable battery retail stores will not maintain any stock they cannot reasonably be sure of selling before the 6 month mark.

The 6 months is due to sulfation buildup on the plates of the battery. Any battery that has been istored (in your garage, say as a backup) without charging for longer than a year should be disposed of. The sulfation (lead sulfate) can cause a fire or even explode if it is hooked up to a charging source.

Just a safety note there. Most cut sheets for batteries have a note or disclaimer on warranty after the 6 month mark concerning charge.

Sorry to hijack the thread there.

[CityFriend1]

You can order one from E-Tip inc, online. engine block heater