Oil & Fuel Cold weather diesel recommendations wanted

[KennK]

I live in the Chicago area and bought my JD 3320 about four years ago. At the time I told the dealer that I wanted an engine heater - he said they weren't necessary in the area.

The tractors started well each winter so long as I kept a trickle-charger on the battery, but last year on a particularly cold night (single digits F) I made the mistake of leaving the tractor parked outside. It simply would not start. I put a blanket over it and left a lit light bulb under the engine compartment for several hours and it finally started - with lots of black smoke and soot.

This spring I took it into the dealer for some work (needed a new injector) and told him to install an engine block heater. When they went to install it they found one already there - its just that the cord was very well hidden. Sigh. Wish I'd known. It wasn't listed on the window sticker (just kidding ... no windows on mine)

 

[Trails2004]

It is very hard to understand why these "dealers" are advising folks that block heaters are not needed?? Especially in northern climates- it only makes sense.

I believe most if not all diesel trucks have a "block heater" installed at the factory.

I dont get it