Originally Posted by Canadian Bacon

So I looked around the web and couldn't find anything good about installing block heater. I finally installed mine today, so I decided to take some pics.
Here's what I did.

I have a 1999 4runner Ltd 5vze. Don't know if this will be the same with the 2.7L


1. Jack up the front of the truck (at least get the front left tire off the ground which is what I did)

2. Pop off tire

3. This is optional, but I took off the front skid plate to have proper access to the radiator drain plug. It's plastic and I didn't want to strip it.

4. Drain the Rad

5. Take off the mud cover in the wheel well

6. Now you need to pop off your most rear frost plug. I did this using about 14 inches of 3/8 drive extension and a 2lb ball peen. give it a few good blows on one edge of the plug so that it comes out crooked instead of falling into your block.

7. Once you have the plug unseated, get some pliers to yank it out.

8. Now you can just put the plug in and tighten the screw, but I put some aviation silicone on around the edges because I heard that the plugs have a tendency to leak. If you use silicone or gasket maker, obviously let it dry before you start the engine, and make sure it has a high enough temperature rating.

9. Route your wire to your front grill. I used zap straps to secure the wire.

10. Put everything back together.

11. Refill your coolant. The whole system will take about 11 liters, so get 3 or 4 jugs.


Now you can keep your block toasty during those cold winter months


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