Canadian Bacon

I found some info about installing a block heater, but nothing too definitive. I was hoping some one could give me a clear explanation.

I bought the factory heater from my Toyota Dealer. I know that I have to pop out a freeze plug, and install it there. Any more info would be appreciated.


Thanks.


'99 4runner ltd. 3.4L 5vfze

SnowRunner98

if I had my digital camera hadnt broke I would show you. I did mine while the motor was out, on the drivers side behind the oil filter. there is a couple of freeze plugs, drain antifreeze, then hammer and LONG screw driver wack it out. place block heater in, tighten it up, and run the cord to the front of your truck, zip ties, and fill up with anti freeze! Oh get it done before it gets cold!

Canadian Bacon

Obviously the trick would be to prevent the plug from dropping in the block. Any specialy way of avoiding that?

Also, do I have to actually drain all the coolant, or can I just try to swap it out quickly so I only lose a bit?


Thanks.

eric-the-red

Screw a sheet metal screw into the plug and hold it with some pliers while you're removing it, which might requires more than 2 hands.

And as for the coolant drain it all. Those freeze plugs are pretty big and you'll end up loosing most of it by the time you get the plug out and the heater in.

Canadian Bacon

So are you saying to pull on that screw to take it out, or just use the screw to hold on to it as I hammer it out?


Also, how do I even access the plug. I've seen pictures and have a general Idea where it is. Do I need to take the tire off or any other panels/components to get better access?


Thanks for the help.

eric-the-red

Just use the screw as a handle to stop the plug falling in the block.

Sorry, don't know how to get to the plug on a Toyota, the only one I ever did was on a 318 V8 Dodge engine

SnowRunner98

just scraped the cover out with the flat head screwdriver. Oh, drain the coolant.. other wise huge mess.

bgmac

This guy can probably help you out, he is from Alaska and has like 3 different heaters hooked up. http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?t=54041

Canadian Bacon

Still haven't found much info on it. Anybody know the easiest way to get at the frost plugs, or have any pics?

Thanks.