Okay, so my latest car purchase came with a stripped block (supposedly a 350) stuffed in the trunk. I just got to pulling it out of there and I noticed that there is an electrical cord (like an extension cord) wired to the side of the block just next to the oil filter port. There are three metal studs into the block to which the wires are connected. The other end is a regular old wall outlet plug, with three prongs. What do you suppose its for? Maybe its something obvious, but everyone I've shown it to doesn't have a clue, and the consensus is that I plug it in to see what it does. Who knows what will happen though? Probably a moot point anyway because overall its in pretty bad shape and I'll probably have no use for it. But, can anyone solve this mystery for me?

Sounds like you have an Engine Block Heater. It was a Dealer installed option and very popular in the colder areas of the country. Also available in aftermarket form from places like JC Whitney, NAPA, Western Auto, etc...

Ed

Block Heater...


Kev

:yes: :yes: yup it a block heater. car was probally in alaska or a cold climate.:beers:

mystery solved. A heater makes perfect sense. Thanks all.

DAMN, we have occasional winters here in Wyoming that make me wish I didn't have a clue what those things were. Oh well.

Hybrid.

Jim! That's it! Hybrid. Mike, get a reeeeeeally loooong extension cord!

I didn't really know what to make of it when I first saw it. I am wondering though, where would you stow the cord when youre driving (or should it unplug at the block)? I assume also that it would be kind of a mess if you forgot and drove off with it still plugged in.........unless of course it is a hybrid and thats your intention anyway!!!
Mike

DAMN, we have occasional winters here in Wyoming that make me wish I didn't have a clue what those things were. Oh well.
Ain't that the truth!

We call those 'umbical cords for cars' up here in MN.. some people without garages "plug" in their cars overnight when its below zero, so it starts for work in the morning. Some put a heat pad under the battery too. Hotels in the northern reaches also have posts with elec. outlets on them to use free as a service. you guys lead a sheltered life :D