Regarding the 2024 Mustang GT Engine Block Heater

[Radiant]

I was just looking for option to keep it warm on the extreme days, we had 3 days this past winter were it -30 with a windchill of -47.

-40, when it's so cold you can respond to "Fahrenheit or Celsius?" with a simple "Yes".

For factory orders, you're at the mercy of the mass market. It's not hard to install an engine-block heater on the Coyote. Pull the freeze plug, install the heater and route the wires. I wouldn't let that stop you from buying the car, as it's a bog-standard part every Ford mechanic knows how to install from servicing trucks.

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[dollybud]

first of all, I selected the 401A and performance package, but I noticed that once you choose the performance package, you will not be able to choose the Engine Block Heater. I don't know why, so I asked Ford's staff, and they said they can install this Engine Block Heater for me. However, it was not at the beginning, but after this car arrived at the dealership, I expressed concern about this. First of all, I want to know why the Engine Block Heater cannot be installed under the premise of selecting the performance package, and whether installing it at the dealership will cause damage to the original structure. What I am also worried about is where the interface of the Engine Block Heater will be, and how should I plug in the power when I need it? (Lift up my hood?) If anyone can answer my question, I would greatly appreciate it!

Instead of going to the expense of a block heater I would use.
a trouble light with a 100 watt bulb and place it under the oil pan. Here in Trenton Ontario it’s not uncommon winter temps can dip -20 F. Always worked with me and others I know.

 

[Skye]

I've been meaning to add a comment of tires, freezing temperatures and storage.

If Summer tires are being kept on the car, and the car will be stored in temperatures where a block heater is used, anyone doing so would want to study the topic of protecting the tires before those temperatures approach.

In-general, once temperatures reach a given point, it's best not to disturb the tire. It's preferred the tires are removed and stored somewhere above freezing.

Once warmer temperatures return, with heat high enough to allow for traction and driving, the tire should be left at that higher, stable temperature for 24 hours before use, so as ensure materials are at a safe temperature throughout.

 

[Zig]

I've been meaning to add a comment of tires, freezing temperatures and storage.

If Summer tires are being kept on the car, and the car will be stored in temperatures where a block heater is used, anyone doing so would want to study the topic of protecting the tires before those temperatures approach.

In-general, once temperatures reach a given point, it's best not to disturb the tire. It's preferred the tires are removed and stored somewhere above freezing.

Once warmer temperatures return, with heat high enough to allow for traction and driving, the tire should be left at that higher, stable temperature for 24 hours before use, so as ensure materials are at a safe temperature throughout.

Like plug in the heater - but agreed good point. Unless you’re storing outdoors in the elements a thermostatically modulated space heater in the garage may be more beneficial.

 

[Skye]

a trouble light with a 100 watt bulb

That's a great idea and I can see that working.

I just checked eBay. Incandescents can still be had.

 

[CanadianRacer]

Tbh i also noticed the same - select block heater and pp goes away - wondered as well but then questioned will i be pushing my pp as frequently as i’ll be freezing my ..?

Does the performance pack add any bracing that may be in the way, no sure how it would block the block heater but for some reason i wanna say there is a slight diff. Anyone have the diagram?

Funny story. My 2024 GT has a block heater and as such isn't a PP. I decided to get the oil cooler that comes with the PP since i was getting high oil temps at the track. Once I had everything apart I quickly discovered the block heater takes up some space where the new PP oil adapter would sit. This is because the PP one is a little wider to accomodate the thermostat controlling flow to the oil rad in the front bumper. So, if you have a PP you won't be able to install a block heater. At least in the same spot as the factory puts them.

 

[Antarctica24]

I can't speak as to why the kit cannot be ordered and installed with the PP. I suspect it's more Ford's logic and their ordering system than anything else. How many people with a PP will be operating it when the temperatures require a block heater (also think Summer tires)? Ford probably believes, "Not many."

In the previous generations of V8s, Ford would install the block heater kit by removing an engine freeze plug, one which was as close to the starter motor as possible. I've seen some references involving F150 trucks where a freeze plug is located on the left side (if sitting in the vehicle), lower rear of the engine.

An existing plug will be removed, with a heating element which is shaped like a freeze plug put it its place.

Regarding the cord and outlet, you can work with them to install anywhere to your liking. The cord itself should be at least long enough to reach the front grill, where most people like. As long as the cord's placement doesn't impact the block heater's operation or wiring, the cable and outlet can be placed anywhere.

Plug and outlet placement is something of a compromise, no matter what you do. Under the hood is cleanest, but now you have to open the hood to initially get to it. In the grill is most convenient, but now you have a plug showing. Maybe install in a way where it is under hood, but can be brought out once, with the hood then closed. You and the dealer can discuss. There's probably more than a few ways something could be done in a nice, clean and functional way.

It reads like you have your car on order. I'd take receipt of the car, get settled with it and start the break-in process, then have the block heater installed somewhat soon, while temperatures are good. Having it in-place during Summer and early Fall will allow you to drive the car several times to ensure no leaks, and confirm it's operation, before Winter start.

Living in Canada , the dealer will be well-versed in how to install these systems. The vehicle itself might be a new model to them, but the mechanicals of the job will be second nature.

Not everyone lives in Texas or California or Florida and they dont sell these cars in only these states. I bought my GT in May, it was 42 degrees. It snowed I the week before and I didnt mail order my car, I got it at a Ford Dealership. You cant drive summer only tires in temps below 45 degrees. So we took the car to a discount tire and put all whether Continental tires on the car. And yes, I have a Stage 2 blower on the car. Its a valid question. No I dont drive the car in the snow, and it can get as cold as -30 and -47 wind chill here in Montana, so having a engine block heater is kind of a required part.

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