Engine Block Heater: Service and Repair

WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE CYLINDER BLOCK DRAIN PLUGS OR LOOSEN THE RADIATOR DRAINCOCK WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE. SERIOUS BURNS FROM COOLANT CAN OCCUR.

REMOVAL
1. Disconnect the battery negative cables.
2. Drain coolant from radiator and cylinder block.
3. Unscrew the power cord retaining cap and disconnect cord from heater element.





Fig. 88

4. Using a suitable size socket, loosen and remove the block heater element (Fig. 88).

INSTALLATION
1. Clean and inspect the threads in the cylinder block.
2. Coat heater element threads with Mopar Thread Sealer with Teflon.
3. Screw block heater into cylinder block and tighten to 43 Nm (32 ft. lbs.).
4. Connect block heater cord and tighten retaining cap.
5. Fill cooling system with recommended coolant.
6. Start and warm the engine.
7. Check block heater for leaks.