Engine block heaters

[DLB]

I found this part that is supposed to be compatible with my 2005 SV6:http://pontiacpartspeople.com/product/Montana%20SV6/2005/Utility/Engine%20Block%20Heater

My question is: does anyone know if this heater is thermostatically controlled to only work at or below zero degrees fahrenheit or -18C?

The users manual states that some models come equipped with a factory installed block heater and that it might be thermostatically controlled as I mentioned.

My concern is that it already had over 100k miles when I purchased it. Since I must leave it outdoors here in Ohio, it starts fine, but I am concerned with the additional wear from starting in very cold mornings below freezing.

The magnetic block heater I used for my previous van will not of course work with this ones aluminum oil pan. For now, I am using it on the tranny pan.

Am I being overly concerned? I am using full synthetic oil at the prescribed weight, but it still seems a bit louder when starting in the winter time. It is not often that we get down to zero here, so I am doubting the help this particular system will give.

 

[melsg5]

Not sure what instructions you are referring to but why would a block heater only come on at 0 degrees, that wouldn't make sense.

 

[DLB]

2005 SV6 manual

Not sure what instructions you are referring to but why would a block heater only come on at 0 degrees, that wouldn't make sense.

I agree that this does not make sense.

This is from page 2-33 of the owners manual:

"Engine Coolant Heater
Your vehicle may have an engine coolant heater. In
very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine
coolant heater can help. You will get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually,
the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum
of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At
temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant
heater is not required. Your vehicle may also have an
internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord. This will
prevent operation of the engine coolant heater when
the temperature is at or above 0°F (−18°C) as noted on
the cord."

There are a number of youtube videos explaining that GM block heaters turn off above zero F to prevent computer error codes when sensors get conflicting information. I don't know if it applies to my year model. Maybe a local dealer would know.

 

[DLB]

Block heater info

For whomever is interested, I just talked to the local dealer. He said that the block heaters with the thermostat are for extreme climates.

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[melsg5]

thanks for the update

 

[G-365162]

It needs to be a certain outdoor temp before it turns on

 

[rednwhite00]

I found this part that is supposed to be compatible with my 2005 SV6:2005 Pontiac Montana SV6 Engine Block Heater 12499852

My question is: does anyone know if this heater is thermostatically controlled to only work at or below zero degrees fahrenheit or -18C?

The users manual states that some models come equipped with a factory installed block heater and that it might be thermostatically controlled as I mentioned.

My concern is that it already had over 100k miles when I purchased it. Since I must leave it outdoors here in Ohio, it starts fine, but I am concerned with the additional wear from starting in very cold mornings below freezing.

The magnetic block heater I used for my previous van will not of course work with this ones aluminum oil pan. For now, I am using it on the tranny pan.

Am I being overly concerned? I am using full synthetic oil at the prescribed weight, but it still seems a bit louder when starting in the winter time. It is not often that we get down to zero here, so I am doubting the help this particular system will give.

Yes it needs to be a certain outside temp before it works. Mine was about -20’c or cooler to work.