Block Heater: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Focus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Install a new block heater.

Clean the inside diameter of the cylinder block bore and surface.

NOTE: Apply a small amount of engine coolant to the block heater O-ring seal before installing it to the cylinder block.

NOTE: Do not tighten the block heater at this stage.

Fig 1: Identifying Correct Block Heater Position

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Install the block heater with the electrical connector of the block heater at the 9 o'clock position.

CAUTION: Do not overtighten the block heater. Failure to follow this instruction may result in coolant leaks.

CAUTION: If the block heater spins in the cylinder block bore more than 1/16 turn while tightening the screw, remove and discard the block heater. Do not attempt to turn the blocker heater back into position, as this will stretch the O-ring seal. Failure to follow this instruction may result in coolant leaks.

NOTE: Make sure that the block heater remains in the 9 o'clock position when tightening the block heater.

Fig 2: Tightening Block Heater

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Tighten the block heater.
Connect the block heater electrical connector.

Fig 3: Connecting Block Heater Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Lower the vehicle.
Fill and bleed the coolant system. For additional information, COOLING SYSTEM DRAINING, FILLING AND BLEEDING .