Liquid coming from block heater

[varmint]

I wouldn't think that leakage should be occurring. If its leaking from the heater itself, and not around the screw-in threads, it's defective. Other than draining the coolant, exchanging it should be easy. And, I think 3 hours is a long time to be heating. My old Kubota, with a similar, Canadian made heater, only takes 30 minutes. It sounds like boiling if I left it for hours- but it is a much smaller engine. My heater is old, and I like the plug at each end feature- mine has about a 8" cord coming out, with the male plug on the end, so if the cord is damaged, I am screwed.

 

[skyhook]

The male portion of this plug unit has 2 prongs and the liquid was coming from the casing portion that surround these prongs.

Defective "block heater", it will need to be replaced.

 

[Gordon Gould]

I wouldn't think that leakage should be occurring. If its leaking from the heater itself, and not around the screw-in threads, it's defective. Other than draining the coolant, exchanging it should be easy. And, I think 3 hours is a long time to be heating. My old Kubota, with a similar, Canadian made heater, only takes 30 minutes. It sounds like boiling if I left it for hours- but it is a much smaller engine. My heater is old, and I like the plug at each end feature- mine has about a 8" cord coming out, with the male plug on the end, so if the cord is damaged, I am screwed.

I don't think so at 30 below. Plenty long enough but not to long. There is no way a block heater will boil the water/antifreeze.

I agree with the others. There is a leak around the prong. I would have it replaced before it becomes a crack.

 

[almost canadian]

Thanks for all the replies.

Dealer is coming out Monday afternoon to take a look. I will report back with the diagnosis.

 

[kebo]

Defective "block heater", it will need to be replaced.

Or else not installed properly. As it heats up and expands, something is not sealing up like it should, thus the leak. Hope your dealer gets it fixed.

 

[almost canadian]

So, for those that are interested, the male portion of the plug was broken and the anti freeze was leaking through it. A 5 minute job to switch it out and top up the anti freeze.

 

[2458n]

Makes sence. That was a good catch on your part. And that is what a dealer should have done. Agree with not worrying about leaving the heater plugged in. My 7.3 diesel goes for days with the heater plugged in because I never know when I have to leave.