Cold weather question

[Fordtrucktexan]

Here in a few days the temp will drop to around 31 degrees F, which isn't a very common thing in southeast Texas. I don't have to drive my truck, I can get around in my work car just fine, but would it be better for the engine if I started it and let the oil get up to temp, power up the block heater, or just let the truck sit and not start it until it warms up outside?

[westcoaststrokin]

31 isn't cold. No need for the block heater at all. If you don't want to drive it it will do just fine sitting. I have started my truck at -7 without being plugged in.

[jd4010]

Here in NC where it does go below freezing more often than Texas, I've (fortunately) never had to plug in the heater. She fires right up. HOWEVER, I always let the oil and coolant warm up to over 100* before driving and even at that, I don't get into it until she is at 150*+. Getting it to 100*+ at 32* may take some time so if you want to shorten the wait, then plug it in.

[NJstrokin07]

31 is nothing you will be fine!! Been up here in VT for a couple years havent plugged the truck in yet. It has started like a gem at -25 (did let you glow plug cycle a couple times first). Do let the truck warm up it will thank you for it

[N8USCG]

i plug my truck in just for a quicker warm up here in Kodiak, and personally i like to think its easier on the truck. but the truck has started right up in 10-20 degree weather with the coolant temp at 32 degrees. i defiantly let it warm up to at least 100 degrees before i start moving.

[mach65]

started her this morning @ 18* and she fired right up.......... drive it, she'll be fine.

[Fordtrucktexan]

Thanks guys, good to know the truck can tolerate the temps better than us southerners can!