user 8430

Do they heat oil significantly? And if so how well compared to a block heater? Thanks

IceShark

They don't work anywhere as well as a block heater. The problems are that they don't put out as much heat and really warm the whole motor, like the piston walls, etc., so the metal can stay pretty stiff. If you are going down into the negative teens F* and below, I would forget it and pop for the block heater.

user 8430

where can I get a block heater compatible with my car? Thanks Ice

IceShark

I guess search the auto parts store which in your neck of the woods should have a good selection. The type you cut a coolant hose in half and clamp the cut hose ends over works pretty good. You don't need any motorized ones or anything, the heated coolant moves all through the system via convection.

It sure makes it nice when you fire up the car in the morning because your cabin heater starts working pretty darn quick and gets you nice and warm.

user 8430

Thanks, what is this type of heater called officially, so I know what to ask for exactly

bearone

it's a block heater and they're usually rated for the size of the engine.

the toughest thing i see on these p-cars is access to heater hoses where you'll cut a piece out and put the ends of the block heater in the place of the hose you removed securing the ends with clamps.
after the install leave a little bit of a pig tail (4-6") out in front of the radiator so you can plug it in.

i grew up in colorado and had one on a 4 cyl volvo for 15 years in temps well below "0" and it was nice to be able to turn the heat on right away.

IceShark

The name is "block heater" but there are two types you should look into. One type goes in a lower coolant hose. The other type you pull a freeze plug out of the block and insert the heater element and a sealing plug.

The later one, a true block heater, might be a little tougher to install but I have never worked on a 968 so don't know how easy it is to get to the block freeze plugs. And I don't know how hard it will be to find the correct size for a 968 as I have never looked for one. I do know that finding some of the Benz block heaters is a real bitch that take a semi-custom fabrication.

user 8430

Thanks guys, I am going to look in to the coolant hose type. Can anyone suggest a manufacturer or a model? Thanks, this sounds like a good and possible addition.

dgz924s

Kat Inline Engine Heaters is a big name and can be had at any automotive parts store. Dal

EZRider

Funny you should ask I just ordered one from JC Whitney. At some 75watts output it probably won't make the engine toasty warm. But I am hoping it will at least loosen up the chilled oil for easier startup. I'd think the dipstick would have to "work" at least an hour before reaping results. Then again my car is just a toy I never drive in snow or heavily salted roads. So I start it, leave it running for half hour then wrap it up under covers.

Peckster

You have to leave them on overnight to make much of a difference. Kgain. go to your local Canadian Tire to see what they have.