block heater options for 2.6 engine

[junkyddog11]

Cutter, that battery is probably most of the problem.

Howzit running (once it starts)?

For what it's worth, I use radiator hose heaters in my heaps (and they are all diesel, and need help) as they are just as effective as the heaters you can fit in a Rover freeze plug and much less hassle to deal with. I have had to remove more leaking block mounted heaters, some that even short out the "shore power" over the years. Most were probably pretty old. I have had to remove hose mounted heaters for the same reason. It's pretty easy to carry a splice for a hose but it's a pain in the arse to repair the freeze plug.

The only thought I had in regard to the hose heaters is possible hose restriction leading to temp issues in summer but have yet to notice any issues with that

[Cutter]

Hi Matt,

Its running great, it really is a pretty decent powerplant for a rover, nothing fancy but smooth and adequately fast.
I am going to replace the battery and see how it goes from there. , Your comment on hose restriction does concern me a bit since this engine runs pretty hot in the summer. I'm a wimp and won't be driving a rover in -20f regularly, so if the engine should start down to 0, I should be fine. After a weekend of thought I'm going to buy a magnetic pan heater to start if after swapping the battery and checking connections it still protests.

[fruitpunch]

My Swiss 6Cyl after upgrading it with a Optima and getting the Carb rebuilt never had any low temp starting issues. Almost started better when it was cold then when it was warm.... what kind of oil are you running ?.....

[Cutter]

Pretty sure its 20W/40.