Block heater?

[Jake940T]

I make a lot of short trips and my engine doesn't often run on its ideal temperature. I'm considering purchasing an engine block heater, would this be a good place for a noob eco modder like my myself to start?

[Frank Lee]

Yes.

[Thymeclock]

Originally Posted by Jake940T

I make a lot of short trips and my engine doesn't often run on its ideal temperature. I'm considering purchasing an engine block heater, would this be a good place for a noob eco modder like my myself to start?

It won't do much good if your short trips take you to places where you can't power up the block heater. Also consider that the heater itself requires a capital outlay to purchase it, and the amount you will spend on electric power for it offsets the potential savings on gasoline. Those are the reasons why I don't have one.

[NoD~]

I found that by insulating my engine compartment, my engine stayed warmer for much longer. I'd recommend starting there. I used some foil covered bubble wrap looking stuff from my local Home Depot, aluminum duct tape, and cardboard to construct. Didn't take long to make, either.

[Iexpedite]

I have been looking at purchasing an oil pan heater for my VX. It's warm here right now, but that doesn't stop my lifters from chattering in the morning. If I pre-heat synthetic oil I should be able to stop the chatter and get a faster warm-up. My car hasn't been reaching "lean burn" temps until I am halfway to work. Throw in a grill block and it should heat up within a 1/4 mile.

[Thymeclock]

Originally Posted by Iexpedite

I have been looking at purchasing an oil pan heater for my VX. It's warm here right now, but that doesn't stop my lifters from chattering in the morning. If I pre-heat synthetic oil I should be able to stop the chatter and get a faster warm-up. My car hasn't been reaching "lean burn" temps until I am halfway to work. Throw in a grill block and it should heat up within a 1/4 mile.

If it's below freezing, the best strategy is to do a full radiator block. Make it out of cardboard and such a way that it is easily removable. You will need to remove it after the engine reaches operating temp, so you are not running too hot.