Block heater installation

[Ben300SD]

I am going to install a block heater on my 300D. It has a 602 motor. I have searched the threads here, and have determined that I simply need to remove a freeze plug with a 19 mm allen wrench and screw the block heater into the block.

It sounds pretty straightforward, but I have a couple of stupid questions. First of all, will I have coolant or oil dripping out of the hole when I remove the freeze plug? Second, the threads that I have read state that it is extremely difficult to remove the freeze plug. These threads, however, mostly deal with diesels from the early 1980s. Is it possible that the freeze plug will come out easier since my engine is only ten years old?

Most importantly, where is this freeze plug? Is it on the bottom or top of the engine? Which side? And finally, how tight do I need to screw the block heater into the engine?

Thanks for entertaining my silly questions, and thanks in advance for any help.

[can-do]

Greetings Ben,

I don't think Benz has changed their location for the block heater plug, it should still be on the passenger side of block under the intake manifold about center. I would however purchase a new intake/exhaust gasket before attempting removal of this plug. Chances are good that you'll have to remove the manifold to get the leverage and clearance needed to break the plug loose. I don't think it's just going to come right out with ease. Many have posted the use of three or four foot cheater bars to get it to budge. The only fluid that might run out is a bit of antifreeze seeing as the plug is threaded into your engines water jacket. As far as torquing the block heater, that one I can't answer as the fitting on the heater would require either a crows foot or an extremely large socket to torque it down. I'd prefer to use a cresent wrench with maximum arm torque to secure it in place.

Good Luck,

Charles

[Ben300SD]

Actually, the exhaust manifold is on the passenger side of my engine. Perhaps the freeze plug is still there?

[can-do]

Greetings Ben,

If like most diesels the intake and exhaust are on the same side of the block, so yours are combined like everyone elses. Intake and exhaust on the same side. Regardless the block heater plug is on that side about midway, but once again I stress to have a spare gasket to replace the one you may have to remove in order to get the clearance needed for this job.

Charles