M42/M44 Block Heater

[Ruddman]

After searching the Net for a block heater for my 95 318TI, I came up empty so i went to the dealership and found one there for 45.50 CDN. the part number is 12-81-0-304-876. I think it installs in the bottom of the rad. Has anyone seen or installed one of these? if so how difficult is it?

[alaska]

why do you need a block heater? It should install in the front soft plug opening

[andyman7931]

Originally Posted by alaska

why do you need a block heater? It should install in the front soft plug opening

when I lived in ontario my family always used block heaters in the winter, especially when parking outside!

[alaska]

My '95 has been in alaska all it's life ( no block heater) starts OK at even -20 degrees. I do not like to install block heaters no any BMWs

[Ruddman]

there is a good chance that i will be moving to Edmonton. Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

[CirrusSR22]

I've always wondered about block heaters on BMWs. It doesn't seem like any of them have them. Also, I searched that part number on realoem.com and nothing came up.

[aceyx]

I seem to recall a thread about someone using the heater from a 5er, or at least wanting to.

[alaska]

the only place I have been able to get any information on block heaters is through BMW Canada. Thay seem to have a complete listing.

[ClubSport]

http://www.wolverineheater.com/products.shtml

These look pretty decent. Maybe you could slap one on your oilpan and do it that way instead of heating the coolant.

[Ruddman]

I have finally picked up my new block heater from the dealership. as i said earlier it sold for 45.50 Cdn + tx.
This unit is small and installs in the rear frost plug of the engine block on the exhaust manifold side.
My only question is, what is the easiest way to remove the frost plug in order to install the block heater?

PS: the parts direct phone number for BMW Durham is

(905) 428-5050
Toll Free
866-633-3269

[pdxmotorhead]

1. Drain Coolant.
2. Drill hole in plug.
3. Use large/course thread self tapping screw into plug.
4. Heat plug with propane torch to break sealer.
5. Pry out with wonderbar by hooking on screw.

This is how I usually install a block heater.
If it will fit I prefer the pump style units,
that go in the heater hose.

Main purpose of block heater = reduce startup wear on engine.

Secondary benifits.....
1. Better mileage because the engine is warm when you start.
2. Heater and defrost work right out of the garage...
3. Happy wife unit because car isn't cold.

Bad:
They leak if not installed correctly in block, thats why I like the pump unit....

Later...

Dave

[J!m]

I prefer to NOT drill the plug,as this sends metal shavings into the coolant circuit...

I punch a hole with a chisel, and hook it with a 'lady slipper'.

Other than that, I do freeze plugs exactly the same way as above.

I also add a bit of Permatex Aviation Form-a-gasket on the freeze plug OD, or on the o-ring of the heater. I just did one on my Land Rover for the James Bay expedition last February (-40 during the day) no problems with leakage...

[pdxmotorhead]

I used to use the chisel method, until I accidentally drove the plug inside... And had to pull the whole exhaust and intake system to get it out..... I usually drill a VERY small hole, like < 3/16 in in dia... Good point though about the cruft from the drill bit.

Dave