I was just thinking last night

[79Merc80]

I was just wondering if installing a block heater would eliminate the need to drain the block over the winter, while still allowing the use of the boat when the weather allowed during the winter.

I'm going to be spending a year or two in Redding, CA. and it never really get's cold enough to keep me off the water during the day, but can get below freezing anight. Would a block heater work? and if so, what's the lower limit for keeping the block water from freezing??

Thanks, Craig

 

[Don S]

Re: I was just thinking last night

It would work fine, right up to the time the power goes out, it gets unplugged accidentally, the cord fails, or the unit itself fails.

 

[gm280]

Re: I was just thinking last night

While Don S does post some very interesting and valid points you could always install a device much like a freezer alarm to alert you IF things get unplugged or stop working. There are always ways to accomplish what you want with 'tronics, one of my favorite subjects/hobbies... :joyous: I look at those issues as challenges and not problems. :happy:

 

[Bondo]

Re: I was just thinking last night

Ayuh,.... 'n, generally speakin', a block heater, only heat 1 side of a V-motor....

For the reasons Don states, it's a foolish bandaid...
Learn how to Drain the motor, 'n exhaust,...
It takes me less than 5 minutes, when I load out at the boat launch to drain mine...

Then it don't matter how cold it gets, as Air don't freeze...