Block heater element replacement

[k1w1t1m]

. The Doves around here are known to build a nest somewhere on the vehicle.

At least the flying rats don't chew wires.

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[IdahoRanger]

Well, it is not a Lariat thing as my VIN shows no open recalls.

 

[Stevedbvik1]

Since it's standard equipment up in Canada, most of the parts will be heading that way. I could be the only one in my city that ordered one for my Ranger, who knows. I rather remove it and cap it off. I don't want my Ranger sitting at the dealership when the part arrives. The Doves around here are known to build a nest somewhere on the vehicle.

If it’s not leaking then maybe just leave it alone. If it does start leaking then bring it in to the dealer. There’s usually no time limit on recalls. The cord end at the heater is a giant rubber plug and most likely will keep it from leaking externally. If you’re never going to plug it in then you have nothing to worry about.

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

I saw that, so something is not matching up- I do not have the heater so someone with it installed can simply do a visual check- if they can see it then it’s a easier replacement.

Based on the pic from the manual you posted, the first place I looked was by the oil filter. I’m not sure if it’s in this pic or not.

The plug cord exits the lower grille opening on the passenger side and turns toward the passenger fog lamp, then toward the rear and then turns upward under the air intake and some other plumbing. After that, I cannot trace it.

 

[Figarou]

If it’s not leaking then maybe just leave it alone. If it does start leaking then bring it in to the dealer. There’s usually no time limit on recalls. The cord end at the heater is a giant rubber plug and most likely will keep it from leaking externally. If you’re never going to plug it in then you have nothing to worry about.

That's what I was thinking of doing. Leaving it alone. But dag nabbit, these recalls gets me worried.

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

If it’s not leaking then maybe just leave it alone. If it does start leaking then bring it in to the dealer. There’s usually no time limit on recalls. The cord end at the heater is a giant rubber plug and most likely will keep it from leaking externally. If you’re never going to plug it in then you have nothing to worry about.

Except keeping an eye on coolant levels and freaking out because you think you might have a head gasket leak.

 

[airline tech]

I think this is where it mounts
Hard to find one on Ebay with it actually installed even Ebay.Ca

I think its mounted at the (Red Arrow) behind the coolant hoses and you can just see a glimpse of the boss.

So, if I am correct, it can be done without pulling the intake, however limited access.
I can see why the early versions of the manuals, called out to remove the intake, only for easier access (Does not appear to be required)
I will add that the manuals do not call for it - BUT you could pull the starter for more access, much simpler than pulling the intake (IF NEEDED)

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

I think this is where it mounts
Hard to find one on Ebay with it actually installed even Ebay.Ca

I think its mounted at the (Red Arrow) behind the coolant hoses and you can just see a glimpse of the boss.

So, if I am correct, it can be done without pulling the intake, however limited access.
I can see why the early versions of the manuals, called out to remove the intake, only for easier access (Does not appear to be required)
I will add that the manuals do not call for it - BUT you could pull the starter for more access, much simpler than pulling the intake (IF NEEDED)

Gotcha, so if you mean this…..

…..then, it’s really in there deep! A tough thing to get at, that’s for sure.

 

[airline tech]

Gotcha, so if you mean this…..

…..then, it’s really in there deep! A tough thing to get at, that’s for sure.

Yes - that's it

 

[DukeCanBuildit]

Yes - that's it

Wow - I’m sure the next time you change your oil filter, you’ll have a look in there and see how well-hidden it is. Seems like a very expensive recall for such a small item but a fire below the brake fluid reservoir is a dangerous thing.

 

[RangerBill]

60K Ford Motor Company Cars Recalled Over Engine Block Heater Fires
https://fordauthority.com/2025/10/6...cars-recalled-over-engine-block-heater-fires/

 

[Trustable]

That's why I rather remove it and cap it. We do get that hard freeze during the winter. But it only lasts a day or two. Sometimes it doesn't happen at all.

I would definitely get it fixed since you have it, but if it helps I wouldn’t stress about it as in it causes you to not be able to start your truck. I’m in mid/northern Michigan and it gets pretty cold here, lows around -10 during winter occasionally, averages 0-20 typically, and I don’t have a block heater or know anyone who has one either, at least for a gas vehicle. I think the the folks in northern Canada and Alaska will probably get the parts before most of the US if I had to guess.

 

[LevittownFordParts.com]

For those asking, the Plug is part #-W701548-S437 measures 3/4 x 14mm NPTF

Thanks,
- Benny

 

[Figarou]

I would definitely get it fixed since you have it, but if it helps I wouldn’t stress about it as in it causes you to not be able to start your truck. I’m in mid/northern Michigan and it gets pretty cold here, lows around -10 during winter occasionally, averages 0-20 typically, and I don’t have a block heater or know anyone who has one either, at least for a gas vehicle. I think the the folks in northern Canada and Alaska will probably get the parts before most of the US if I had to guess.

When the part is available, my local Ford dealership will order it when I take mine in. I'm not going to leave my truck there UNTIL they have the part. It should be available the 1st quarter of 2026. I'm going to ask if it could be removed and capped as part of the recall. This way I don't have to wait for the part.

 

[Figarou]

For those asking, the Plug is part #-W701548-S437 measures 3/4 x 14mm NPTF

Thanks,
- Benny

Is it 4 caps? Or is the picture showing different angles of one?

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