Engine Block Heater: Service and Repair

NOTE: The engine block heater is installed on the front face of cylinder block behind the engine oil dipstick.

WARNING: Allow the engine and all cooling system components to cool before installation of the block heater.





NOTE: To make sure the heater is firmly seated against the cylinder block, clean the block's outer surface of foreign debris using a wire brush prior to installing the heater assembly.

1. Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
2. Remove the resonator to facilitate block heater/cord installation.





3. Insert the heater assembly against the cylinder block positioning the heater assembly tab into the upper casting slot. Attach the heater assembly to the threaded boss on the cylinder block with the bolt provided. Torque to 25 Nm (19 ft. lbs.).
4. Remove the two upper radiator bracket support nuts. Remove the brackets with grommets.

CAUTION: To avoid damaging the power cord, make sure the cord is routed away from the exhaust manifold and does not contact any moving components or sharp edges.





5. Connect the power cord to the block heater. Route the cord between the ignition module and engine mount and out to the left-hand of the radiator, under the air box and under the vehicle's upper cross-car support brace. The radiator can be moved rearward slightly for cord installation between the upper support brace and radiator outside the attachment bracket.
6. Use a cable tie and fasten the power cord to upper radiator support bracket. The upper radiator hose can be moved slightly upward to facilitate tie strap installation.

CAUTION: Wrap the cord in a coil and leave it placed in the area behind the driver's side fascia support bracket, in front of radiator and next to the head lamp assembly bracket. Make sure the plug protective cap is installed.





7. Use the second cable tie and fasten the coiled power cord to the fascia support bracket.

CAUTION: A protective cap should be installed on the plug when the heater is not being used to protect it from road debris.

8. Install the two upper radiator support brackets with grommet and nuts. Torque to 10 Nm (89 inch lbs.).
9. Install the resonator. See Exhaust System.
10. Connect the battery negative cable. Torque to 17 Nm (151 inch lbs.).