Installing a tank type block heater on an M

Dr. Bert · Nov 29, 2011

I want to install a tank type heater on my '49 M. Found a plug on the left side of the block just ahead of the carburetor and a plug on the left side of the water outlet casting. If I use the last mentioned, will the warmed water bypass the thermostat? Is there a bypass built into this casting to allow some water flow when the thermostat is closed? It is suggested in the archives to plug into the port in the head where the water temperature bulb is installed. Which would be best? Thanks.

Maxx · Nov 29, 2011

Edit: I misunderstood the heater type.

Super-H-Mike · Nov 29, 2011

On my 53 SM ,the local dealer installed a tank heater sometime in the 70s, and it still works good even today ! It is mounted next to and just ahead of the carb, using the opening you mentioned for a short hose to the heater,then a long hose goes forward and wraps around the front of the engine above the water pump and along the block on the dist. side to where the temp gauge taps in. There are pipe fitting adapters there to plumb the hose nipple and tee for the original temp gauge sensor to still be used. It looks and works good this way. Most of the hose is hidden under the hood, but of course the heater itself is in plain view.It mounts with the bolts from the governor housing. Hope that helps! ~ Mike

rustyfarmall · Nov 29, 2011

(quoted from post at 13:48:42 11/29/11) On my 53 SM ,the local dealer installed a tank heater sometime in the 70s, and it still works good even today ! It is mounted next to and just ahead of the carb, using the opening you mentioned for a short hose to the heater,then a long hose goes forward and wraps around the front of the engine above the water pump and along the block on the dist. side to where the temp gauge taps in. There are pipe fitting adapters there to plumb the hose nipple and tee for the original temp gauge sensor to still be used. It looks and works good this way. Most of the hose is hidden under the hood, but of course the heater itself is in plain view.It mounts with the bolts from the governor housing. Hope that helps! ~ Mike

Yes, that is the way to install it for the most efficiency.

Super-H-Mike · Nov 29, 2011

I also use a battery heating blanket and tee the two together into the same extension cord. The two together allow it to start like its 60 degrees outside even when its well below zero. I believe its also a helluva lot easier on everything !

rustyfarmall · Nov 29, 2011

(quoted from post at 14:11:51 11/29/11) I also use a battery heating blanket and tee the two together into the same extension cord. The two together allow it to start like its 60 degrees outside even when its well below zero. I believe its also a helluva lot easier on everything !

That battery blanket can make all the difference in the world. I remember taking the battery out of my ol' '60 Chevy and bringing it in the house at night to stay warm. Never missed a day of classes due to cold weather.

Installing a tank type block heater on an M

Dr. Bert

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Maxx

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Super-H-Mike

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rustyfarmall

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Super-H-Mike

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rustyfarmall

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