engine block heater

[JIMFORD350]

Hey fellas - I've noticed that as it gets colder, the rougher it is to start my truck. I've looked for wires near the grill and see nothing, so I am assuming I do not have an engine block heater. I'd like to install one, even if I don't absolutely need it, since I think it's easier on the truck to use it when the temp dips below 20 degrees or so. I mean the thing shakes like it's coming apart for the first few seconds after it starts!

the ford dealer says they can get me the heater and plug for about $100. Is this an easy install, or a majot PITA?

Thanks,

Jim

[kuntryquesttsi]

It should be on the passenger side of the motor, may come out near the bumper or your may have to crawl under and find it. I picked up a block heater for 20 or 30 bucks it just fits into an soft plug area. Not a bad time to check your coolant to be sure the correct stuff is in there.

[JIMFORD350]

The heater stopped working, and ten minutes later the radiator blew up. I had it replaced at a Warren Tire Center.The mechanic who put it in said the truck had an engine block heater and the wires had been cut, and said they were dangerous due to risk of electric shock?

I have found what looks like an AC wire (three wires, one green) that has been cut. The wire seems to dissapear towards the front passenger side of the engine block but I cannot see where the wire actually terminates.

Where should I find the engine block heater? I'd like to wire this one up and see what happens.

[JIMFORD350]

I should clarify my earlier post - the heat in the truck (i.e. warms my toes) is what stopped working. Then the radiator blew, and I had the radiator replaced.

I found the engine block heater, and my suspect wires were indeed the wires for the block heater. The engine block heater is located on the passenger side of the block, near the botton of the engine near the back, and can be seen by looking up under the truck just behind the cross frame.

I spliced a new plug on the end and plugged it in, then tested the body and door handles with a voltage tester set for AC current. Nothing. A half hour later, I knelt near the grill and I could hear a hissing, gurgling sound.

I'm going start it in a while (after unplugging the block heater) and see it it starts easy like its warm.