I decided to get a block heater installed on my 1984 MBZ 300D Turbo this morning. My buddy, who has been working on MBZ cars for about 30 years said he didn't want to do it because the plug is so hard to get out. I then called a radiator shop and was referred to a machine shop owner's son who does WVO conversions. The son grimaced and said he didn't want to do it either. His father explained the difficulty in removing the plug that has been in place since 1984, along with the possible damages that could happen -- stripped threads...

I have read many postings about block heaters, and even one about rigging up something to run the aux. coolant pump at the same time. BUT, I don't recall anyone complaining about the difficulty in putting a block heater on an old MBZ.

I need suggestions please. Any reputable mechanics in the SF Bay Area who do this?

I also see a couple lower radiator hose heaters:
http://www.dieselgiant.com/diesel_parts_for_sale.htm#Block%20Heater%20Kit
and
http://www.amazon.com/Kats-14400-Lower-Radiator-Heater/dp/B000I8TQ0O/ref=pd_rhf_p_img_1

What is the ID of the lower radiator hose on the 1984 MBZ 300D Turbo?

I had one of these hose heaters on a 1979 VW Rabbit Diesel in New England. I remember it used to get below 0*F and it worked just fine.

Thanks,
Paul

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1984 300D Turbo