Block Heater Timer?
10-24-2007 | 08:38 AM
#16
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From: Delaware
The only thing about leaving it plugged in all night would probably be a higher energy bill and possible wearing out the heater early... Also, have heard of issues with block heaters/wiring that have caught vehicles on fires... But I don't know with modern GFCI requirements if it could happen.. I think I'll make a call to mythbusters and see if it can happen...
10-24-2007 | 08:45 AM
#18
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From: northwestern PA
10-24-2007 | 09:42 AM
#19
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From: Raynham,MA
You may want to check your extension cord, make sure it is a good heavy duty with 3 prongs. If it's a light duty and 200 feet long it will draw more amp than needed and burn out your timer.
I have a $15, 15amp, cheap-o, from Wally Word, But it's plugged into a outside GFI 20 amp and a new heavy duty 25 ft cord, (well not new), it's been there for 4 years.
I have a $15, 15amp, cheap-o, from Wally Word, But it's plugged into a outside GFI 20 amp and a new heavy duty 25 ft cord, (well not new), it's been there for 4 years.
10-24-2007 | 09:57 AM
#21
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If you are plugging into a GCFI outlet, it is pretty easy to get it to trip if the plug at the truck builds up a little snow or ice. It tends to be a little warm at the plug and melts the snow/ice and will sometimes trip the safety.
10-24-2007 | 11:29 AM
#22
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From: Ohio
Its just pluged into the truck w/ nothing else on the that circuit. Maybe that extra 25+ feet of cord laying there isn't helping?
10-24-2007 | 11:31 AM
#23
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I know, that why I use a timer. It doesn't need to be plugged in ALL night. Just 2 hours or so before I leave (depending on temp).
10-24-2007 | 11:34 AM
#24
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40?! I don't plug mine in until its below 25. Ive never had a problem starting it though, Even after work when it was close to zero last winter. I'm sure that oil dont want to move when it that cold though!
10-24-2007 | 11:36 AM
#25
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From: Ohio
10-24-2007 | 11:40 AM
#26
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From: Central MA
I have an Intermatic HB35R I bought at Wally World. It's 10 AMP and was $10. 3 prong plug and it's rain/sleet/snow tight as it has a cover. I've had it for 3 years with no problems.
That programable timer from Intermatic does look nice.
That programable timer from Intermatic does look nice.
10-24-2007 | 11:43 AM
#27
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I measured the block heater current draw on my 05 a couple of weeks ago - it was drawing about 6.5 amps and a little over 700 watts (AC voltage was showing 121). Any timer rated 15 amps should be plenty - I suppose there could be differences depending on model year, etc. but I doubt it could be more than double.
I have an X-10 Powerhouse system, so I can adjust the time easily from the control unit on the nightstand - I give it an hour at 30 degrees, 2 hours at 20, 3 hours at 10, etc. Engine starts fine.
I also use a winter front, to heat things up to operating temp more quickly.
I have an X-10 Powerhouse system, so I can adjust the time easily from the control unit on the nightstand - I give it an hour at 30 degrees, 2 hours at 20, 3 hours at 10, etc. Engine starts fine.
I also use a winter front, to heat things up to operating temp more quickly.
Last winter when the malmart timer crapped out I would get up like 2 hours early and run out in 15 degree weather in my boxers just to plug the extension cord in!! NOT FUN.
I wish it would fit in my garage but the trucks too tall, even at OEM height 
.
10-24-2007 | 11:50 AM
#28
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From: Ohio
You may want to check your extension cord, make sure it is a good heavy duty with 3 prongs. If it's a light duty and 200 feet long it will draw more amp than needed and burn out your timer.
I have a $15, 15amp, cheap-o, from Wally Word, But it's plugged into a outside GFI 20 amp and a new heavy duty 25 ft cord, (well not new), it's been there for 4 years.
I have a $15, 15amp, cheap-o, from Wally Word, But it's plugged into a outside GFI 20 amp and a new heavy duty 25 ft cord, (well not new), it's been there for 4 years.
10-24-2007 | 11:54 AM
#29
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From: Ohio
The fiitting on the truck is an actuall Marine type 120VAC unit mounted to the ranchhand and had a integreated rubber cap for wheather. Pretty sweet setup and it always right there.. Looks oem too-
10-24-2007 | 12:02 PM
#30
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I see Home depot in my crystal ball for staurday
