Too good to be true?
 

Check it out:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Zerostart-Engine-Heater-Chevy-Ford-Doge-GMC-Pontiac-/270641394334?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f037bf29e

Looks like they have quite a few!

Jay.

read their add;

'Remember you get what you pay for don't settle for low quality replacement auto parts!'

Bottom radiator hose heaters do not work very well. They are a low quality solution.

They work pretty well, actually. Not nearly as efficient as the freeze-plug units, but MUCH easier to install. In Minnesota, I wouldn't even consider one. Up here in the temperate rain forest, however, these are a viable alternative. FWIW they want $42 for the same heater at Baxter Auto Parts. How much is ************** asking? DieselGiant??

Jay.

I've had both. They both work, but the lower radiator type don't heat the block as much.

My garage is somewhat heated. But I am sure temps will still get pretty dang low. So I am thinking of doing what others have. Well, after my oil leaks are fixed. I plan to put a high-wattage lamp under the car. I will leave it plugged in and on a switch. Then just pull up and over the light, get out and flip the wall switch. With a thermostat in conjunction there is some safety in over-heating things.

Great solution and no need to have a dirty cord to find and plug in. Of course this only works for garaged cars.

I had Diesel Giant's heater in my '85 300D. It worked well although I never had the opportunity to use it in really cold weather. For the California version of the W123 300D it's almost a must -- the trap catalyst makes getting to the plug in the block almost impossible. I did notice that lower radiator hose heaters tend to draw more current than in-block heaters. You might keep that in mind when "budgeting" for extension cords and timers.