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4X4 · 11-20-2007, 04:18 PM

Well, before you go taking advice from some guy on a messageboard, let me explain...

First, my truck runs 4.3l V6 GM engine. Previous engines I've done this with include a 4.0l V6 ford and the ever reliable 2.9V6 ford (ranger). I did the same in my ex's 3.3l V6 chev.
All I ever did (and still do) is test (and replace if necessary) the alternator. Taking it out and putting it back in is easy. You can get it tested at Auto Value. If you need a new one, get a rebuilt from that place on 17th SE, World Wide. If there's a heavy duty one for your ride, get it. It wont cost more than $80 unless you're in a 6.3l diesel, in which case you should know your own info about vehicles.
While you're getting your alternator tested, get your battery tested. If its old or low CCA, replace it anyway. Nothing worse that a crappy battery in a Calgary winter.

Canadian Tire sells good batteries for good prices. My truck accomidates the 875 CCA Eliminator. If you're in a car, you wont be able to put a battery quite that big, but you also wont need the cranking amps to turn over a smaller engine.

I wont say unilaterally that you run zero risk of damage, but I will tell you that with clean oil and good cranking amps, there is no reason why your car shouldn't start in any weather warmer than -35 unless you've left the thing sitting for 3 days.
All a block heater does is keep the oil pan warm and therefore reduces the initial friction of starting and speed up the entire lubrication process. It is better for your engine... But so is changing your oil every 3,000km instead of 5,000.

A lighter oil in winter also helps initial lubrication. 5w30 is perfect for cars.

I also let my rig warm up for 5-10 minutes when it is that cold, just because I hate a freezing cold vehicle.

**disclaimer** do not confuse my endorsement of Canadian Tire batteries as an endorsement for anything else within their walls, including their mechanics.

11-20-2007, 04:18 PM	#16
4X4 One of the Nine Join Date: Dec 2004 Exp:	Well, before you go taking advice from some guy on a messageboard, let me explain... First, my truck runs 4.3l V6 GM engine. Previous engines I've done this with include a 4.0l V6 ford and the ever reliable 2.9V6 ford (ranger). I did the same in my ex's 3.3l V6 chev. All I ever did (and still do) is test (and replace if necessary) the alternator. Taking it out and putting it back in is easy. You can get it tested at Auto Value. If you need a new one, get a rebuilt from that place on 17th SE, World Wide. If there's a heavy duty one for your ride, get it. It wont cost more than $80 unless you're in a 6.3l diesel, in which case you should know your own info about vehicles. While you're getting your alternator tested, get your battery tested. If its old or low CCA, replace it anyway. Nothing worse that a crappy battery in a Calgary winter. Canadian Tire sells good batteries for good prices. My truck accomidates the 875 CCA Eliminator. If you're in a car, you wont be able to put a battery quite that big, but you also wont need the cranking amps to turn over a smaller engine. I wont say unilaterally that you run zero risk of damage, but I will tell you that with clean oil and good cranking amps, there is no reason why your car shouldn't start in any weather warmer than -35 unless you've left the thing sitting for 3 days. All a block heater does is keep the oil pan warm and therefore reduces the initial friction of starting and speed up the entire lubrication process. It is better for your engine... But so is changing your oil every 3,000km instead of 5,000. A lighter oil in winter also helps initial lubrication. 5w30 is perfect for cars. I also let my rig warm up for 5-10 minutes when it is that cold, just because I hate a freezing cold vehicle. disclaimer do not confuse my endorsement of Canadian Tire batteries as an endorsement for anything else within their walls, including their mechanics.