I have installed a zerostart freeze plug block heater on my 67 190xt and recently my 68 190xt because neither had the special port. I also installed a zerostart in my 7010, which has the special port and the plate install. My 67 190XT was done 6 years ago and no problems of a meltdown. My 7010 was replaced by me I think 2 years ago. None of them have burnt up or stopped working so I think that is quite odd. I have used them quite a bit.
I don't think you will want to put in a 400 Watt version. It will not get hot enough in a few hours. After installing a 600 Watt in my 68 190xt, it struggles to get the block warm when the temp goes below 20 degrees. I measured the temp on the heater side and it was 45 degrees, but on the opposite side, it was like 30 degrees. The outside air was 10 degrees.
Here's a couple of ideas to consider:
1) Measure the output of the voltage of the receptacle you are using? Is it 120+ volts?
2) Are you using the same receptacle every time or do you use different ones?
3) Could you be using an inferior extension cord? I use a heavy duty 12 awg cord on mine. Does the short pigtail cord have damage to it causing overheating?
4) Orientation is important but most of them will only orient one way. 190xt has the element going to 3PM position for freeze plug but you are using the port. You can only put it in one way from what I remember on my 7010.
5) When I did a search on the Allis part number, I got the 1000 watt block heater come up and not a 1500 watt version. Could you be buying the wrong part number and that element is touching the metal? I think 1500 watt will have more element extending into the block. Zerostart model that is compatible with 7010 engine is 350-0014 and is 1000 watt.
6) The other possibility is that your coolant is low and not completely covering the element. This will cook them quickly.
7) I didn't know this but the AI bot said if you leave them plugged in 24/7 it can also cause them to fail. I have left mine plugged in all night because I wanted to use it the next morning. It suggested no more than 3 hours at a time.
Electrical things can be quite elusive so good luck. I really like using the block heaters but at about $130 a pop, that sucks to see them stop after short term use.
Topic Options
Post Options
Thanks(0)
