I have a 1974 Jensen Interceptor with a RB-series V-8 440. I was wondering if it was a good idea to install a block heater, not to cope with severe cold, but to improve starting and reduce stress on the engine until it reaches operating temperature.

If anybody has experience of block heaters for these engines, and the experience is good, what form of block heater would you recommend?

 

There are normally several types of heaters available:

"Casting Plug", "core plug" or "freeze plug" are the best

Second best IF THEY FIT is lower hose, but many lower hoses have a "hump" coming up over the frame and cannot be used.

"Tank" type in heater hose are worst, and least efficient, and can sometimes be problematic.

Magnetic heaters and dipstic heaters are a joke.

Battery warmers are OK if they are quality and don't overheat, but I don't know who makes quality ones anymore

 

Jan -

I don't think to many of us bother, but most of us really don't take our vintage cars out in the winter either. Just remember years ago, these were "stock" motors, ie daily drivers and they didn't come with block/engine heaters. We just had to deal with letting them "warm up".

Archer

 

I dont see the point. By using a multi-weight oil [5w, or 10w-30] you have an oil that "has the ability" flow like a thinner oil at a lower temp, but still will provide all the protection you will need for a cold start. Unless you are uber-rich and can afford an engine "pre-luber", just relax.

 

It would help to keep condensation from forming inside the engine from not being thoroughly warmed up in cold weather.