Block Heater: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escort. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Clean the inside diameter of the cylinder block hole machined surface and the hole entrance. Check the machined surface of the hole to be sure it is free of nicks, scratches and porosity.
- Apply a liberal amount of Motorcraft Premium Engine Coolant VC-4-A (CXC-10 in Canada, VC-5 in Oregon) or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A or Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant VC-7-A or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1 to the block heater O-ring and the cylinder block bore.
- Install a new block heater into the cylinder block bore with the power cable connector at the 3 o'clock position. Fully seat the block heater into the block.
- Secure the block heater in the 3 o'clock position by hand and tighten the screw.
- Connect the block heater power cable.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Connect the negative battery cable. For additional information refer to REMOVAL & INSTALLATION .
- Fill and bleed the engine cooling system. For additional information, refer to COOLING SYSTEM DRAINING, FILLING AND BLEEDING .
- Start the engine and check for leaks.
NOTE:
Use the same type of coolant that was drained from the system. Do not mix coolant types.
CAUTION:
Never use RTV or any type of sealer on the block heater O-ring or cylinder block bore. This will result in coolant leaks.
CAUTION:
Do not overtighten the block heater screw. This will distort the block heater body and result in coolant leaks.
CAUTION:
If the block heater spins in the cylinder bore more than 1/16 turn while tightening the screw, remove and discard the heater. Attempting to spin the heater back into location will stretch the O-ring and result in coolant leaks.