As the temp here in MD approaches freezing I have begun to plug my truck in overnight. I use a 1000W timer which gives power to the block heater for about 4 hours before starting.
My questions:

1. Do the heating elements heat up even when the block heater has been on?

2. Is there a way to test the block heater/heater cord to be certain they are working properly?

3. My 5 year old stock batteries clearly don't have the umph they used to. If the block heater is working properly, any suggestions on replacements?

Thanks!

 

1. By saying heating elements I assume you mean grid heater. Not sure of the threashold but I understand it's quite warm......the block heater will never get there and it's based on intake temp so, yes.

2. Use a multimeter and check for continuity across the plug (cord) spades.

3. Many use Optima red or yellow top, wonderful product IMHO.

 

Which Optimas do most use? Red or yellow? Exactly whcih model/part #
Thanks!

 

I run Two ODYSSEY PC2150-T most say thats major over kill, with that amprage you really only need to run one you can even get away with running one of the 1700. you can get them at http://www.batterymart.com/battery.mv?p=ODY-PC2150-T , one thing about optima they don't have a very good reserve, slow low amp drains will kill them fast and will distroy. them .

 

Last winter, when it was around -10C, I'd have it plugged in, and the grid heaters didn't need to cycle. Start up with out missing a beat. Any colder than that and the grid heaters would cycle on for 15-20 seconds.

 

As you can see in my sig. I run 2 yellow top optimas. D31A, they are the biggest ones offered. They have 155 reserve minutes and 900 cca. I have had them in for almost a year and they are awesome!!

 

Yes... The grid heater come on when the IAT sensor see about 60*F... It's just shorter than a cold start unplugged.

Use a DVM and see if there is open curcuit... The upper radiator hose should feel very warm to the touch...

Most here suggest Optima Red Tops... I'm still using my stock batteries yet...