With wind-chills below -10 already in Chicago, I think it's time to consider a block heater. Anyone ever install one in the 5.7L? If so, any advice or preference towards a model/brand and installation? Just trying to make it easier on the engine to start since it's already struggling and it's not even winter yet. Thanks for any advice and good luck this winter!
Howdy. Looks like nobody has taken a stab at this so maybe I can provide a few ideas.
I know some styles of block heaters simply go where one of the block freeze plugs are. That was one reason I never opted for the factory one when I ordered my Tahoe. I omitted that, and the heated mirrors. (Tahoe was ordered-bought from City Chevrolet in Chicago)
I've seen other types which do not need installing in the block. Such as I once helped a friend install a unit many years ago that simply spliced into the lower radiator hose on his then 1984 GMC K3500 Dually Pickup. I later bought that truck from him. The unit worked fine. (at the time I also lived in Chicago)
Another, and it is one that I have currently on my 2001 Kia Spectra as this car was originally sold-licensed in Alaska.
This type is simply some thin heating pad type, in which there are actually 3 heating pads on my Kia, which are on the Oil Pan, the Transaxle Pan, and under the Battery. Just added this later, that one has the option of just 1 heating pad, or more, just like I have.
It appears all of the pads are simply glued into place with a heavy duty RTV Silicone Sealant which on mine appears to be the red-orange grade of sealant.
It is sort of comical, because the 3 pad's wiring simply go to a hodge-podged home depot 4 inlet AC Junction Box, and of course one Male 3 prong plug exits the box with a short length of cable that it can be accessed at the front grill and then plugged in. Perhaps just a simple AC Power Strip would suffice as well?
I've never had a need to use it (knock on wood!), but assume it works fine.
I would assume if you were to search the web-ebay with such a simple search as "Block Heater", or "Universal Block Heater", this should bring back some hits.
Other options for aiding a vehicle during such colder weather is to switch to a good full synthetic engine oil. Oils such as 5-30W or even 0-30W from the likes of Mobil 1 or even Amsoil should be a great help in that they have better pourability in sub-freezing temps. Whereas conventional oils get like Vaseline at such extreme cold temps and cause slow cranking.
From after the first 1200 miles on my 1997 Tahoe, I switched to 5-30W Mobil 1 and for the first 6 years of ownership was living in Chicago. Never had any starting problems. Mobil 1 is all that I have ever used.
The other of course is having a good battery, and if at all possible to perhaps somehow shroud the battery with some type of insulation.
High winds combined with the cold can really knock the crap out of any battery.
Hope this helps.
PS: As for heaters though, I really like that crazy setup I have on the Kia. Sounds good as it warms oil, tranny, and battery all at the same time.
As well, I am a true believer in using full synth lubes for the entire drivetrain. Both Axles, Transfer Case, Motor and Tranny are filled with the correct full Synth Lubricants on my Hoe.
For folks that live in areas such as northern MN, I think such is a must!
