circulating block heater

colonel6632 · 11-19-2010, 11:47 PM

hey guys,

i have a 2.2 ecotec with 5 speed

i want to install a circulating block heater on my car. my shop can sell me one for like $50 for a 1500w one.

i want to get command start, but with the car not producing heat after 30 minutes of idling, i want warm coolant when i start it lol. and the oil pan block heater is garbage.

so first.
i need to know where i can tap into the block for my coolant suction, and coolant pressure. are there ports on the back or front of the motor for this.

and second... is 1500w too much? i dont want to go melting anything lol

something like this
http://www.amazon.com/Kats-13150-Alu.../dp/B000BQUUR6

Cliff8928 · 11-20-2010, 12:59 AM

Should work good... It should automatically shut off so it doesn't overheat.

I noticed that with my Ecotec too... If you're idling (even in traffic) it really cools off.

The stock block heater does make a difference, but not like you get in and it's warm.

XanderWiFi · 11-20-2010, 06:27 AM

Don't most people have the problem of overheating? This is a new thing to me...

colonel6632 · 11-20-2010, 08:23 AM

its pretty hard to overheat at -30 to -40c

widbyj · 11-20-2010, 11:33 AM

I lived in Alaska for 8 years and have had this problem also. Modern cars are designed to work well with heat, not cold. Blocking the radiator with cardboard will help to retain what engine heat there is, this helps somewhat.

Block / Oilpan heaters only warm things up enough to allow for easier starting.

Circulating heaters boil/pump coolant through the system and can preheat more than just the engine. With the style you have selected you will be tapping into the heater hoses which works very well! No need for extra connections to the engine. The hot water will come out of the heat unit and go through the heater core before going back through the engine. This way you get interior pre-heating (sort of) and the engine is pre-warmed.

TIP: Get a big old sleeping bag to throw over the hood and windshield when not in use. Secure it with a small tarp and some bungees. This holds the heat in overnight and keeps your windshield clear for easier mornings.

clutch1 · 11-20-2010, 04:03 PM

I didn't know they made those!!! That's a cool gadget if it works, way cheaper than a remote start.

colonel6632 · 11-20-2010, 09:24 PM

yup, i install them on semi trucks for the winter lol