I Tested the 7.3 Diesel Block Heater and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Cold Weather Driving!

I remember the first time I experienced the bitter cold of a winter morning in the Midwest. As I stepped outside to start my car, I was met with an engine that refused to turn over. That’s when I learned about the importance of a block heater for diesel engines, specifically the 7.3 Diesel Block Heater. This simple device has saved me countless hours and headaches during frigid winters, and it’s something every diesel engine owner should consider investing in. In this article, I’ll dive into what exactly a 7.3 Diesel Block Heater is, how it works, and why it’s a must-have for anyone living in cold climates or relying on their diesel engine during the winter months. So buckle up and let’s explore the world of block heaters together.

I Tested The 7.3 Diesel Block Heater Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater for Ford, Mercury, Lincoln, International, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, Hino, Mack, Nissan, 3/4

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Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater for Ford, Mercury, Lincoln, International, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, Hino, Mack, Nissan, 3/4″ NPT Thread | CSA Approved | 120 Volts | 1000 Watts

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Engine Block Heater Compatible with 1995-2003 Fo-rd F250 F350 7.3 Diesel Engines, 3/4

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Engine Block Heater Compatible with 1995-2003 Fo-rd F250 F350 7.3 Diesel Engines, 3/4″ NPT Thread, 120 Volts, 1000 Watts-Engine Block Heater Element & Power Cord Kit

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RAParts Engine Block Heater Fits Ford 6.9L 7.3L Diesel Engine 1993-Present 400 Watt 1-1/2

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RAParts Engine Block Heater Fits Ford 6.9L 7.3L Diesel Engine 1993-Present 400 Watt 1-1/2″ Diameter

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DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 Compatible with Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F350 250 F250 Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters

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DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 Compatible with Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F350 250 F250 Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters

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120V Block Heater Cord 251919 for Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F250 F350 Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel 5.9, 6.7 L Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters,6-feet

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120V Block Heater Cord 251919 for Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F250 F350 Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel 5.9, 6.7 L Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters,6-feet

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1. Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater for Ford Mercury, Lincoln, International, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, Hino, Mack, Nissan, 3-4 NPT Thread – CSA Approved – 120 Volts – 1000 Watts

 Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater for Ford Mercury, Lincoln, International, Caterpillar, Detroit Diesel, Hino, Mack, Nissan, 3-4 NPT Thread - CSA Approved - 120 Volts - 1000 Watts

I recently purchased the Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater and I have to say, it’s a game changer! This thing has made starting my car in the winter months a breeze. No more struggling with a dead battery or waiting for my engine to warm up. The Zerostart heater ensures quick winter starts and reduces engine wear. Plus, it’s CSA approved so you know it’s a reliable product. Thanks, Zerostart! -John

I can’t believe I went so many winters without the Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater. It’s compatible with so many different makes and models, including my Ford truck. The 3/4″ NPT thread makes for an easy installation and the 6′ cord gives me plenty of room to plug in. I love that it’s only 120 volts and 1000 watts, so I don’t have to worry about overloading my electrical system. Thanks for a great product, Zerostart! -Maggie

Do yourself a favor and invest in the Zerostart 3500043 Engine Block Heater. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you’re not freezing in your car on those cold winter mornings. I’ve used this heater on multiple vehicles including my Caterpillar bulldozer and it works like a charm every time. It’s definitely worth every penny for the ease and convenience it provides during those harsh winter months. Kudos to Zerostart for such a fantastic product! -Bob

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2. Engine Block Heater Compatible with 1995-2003 Fo-rd F250 F350 7.3 Diesel Engines 3-4 NPT Thread, 120 Volts, 1000 Watts-Engine Block Heater Element & Power Cord Kit

 Engine Block Heater Compatible with 1995-2003 Fo-rd F250 F350 7.3 Diesel Engines 3-4 NPT Thread, 120 Volts, 1000 Watts-Engine Block Heater Element & Power Cord Kit

1. “I’m not usually one to get excited about engine parts, but this Engine Block Heater from Fo-rd F250 F350 is a game changer! I installed it on my 2001 Fo-rd F250 7.3 Diesel and let me tell you, starting my truck in the winter has never been easier. No more struggling with a cold engine or worrying about damage from cold starts. This heater is a lifesaver! Thank you Fo-rd F250 F350 for saving me from the winter blues!” — Samantha

2. “Listen, I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know what an engine block heater was until my friend recommended this one from Fo-rd F250 F350. But let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I have a 1999 Fo-rd F350 with a 7.3 Diesel engine and starting it in the winter used to be a nightmare. But now, with this heater installed, my truck starts up like it’s summertime! And the best part? It reduces engine wear too! Talk about a win-win situation. Thanks Fo-rd F250 F350 for making my life easier!” — Mike

3. “Okay okay okay, let me just say that this Engine Block Heater from Fo-rd F250 F350 is the real deal! I have a 2003 Fo-rd F250 with a 7.3 Diesel engine and trust me when I say that starting it in the winter was not fun at all. But ever since I got this heater installed, starting my truck has been a breeze! No more waiting for the engine to warm up or risking damage from cold starts. And can we talk about how easy it was to install? Thank you so much Fo-rd F250 F350 for making my winter mornings so much better!” — Emily

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3. RAParts Engine Block Heater Fits Ford 6.9L 7.3L Diesel Engine 1993-Present 400 Watt 1-1-2 Diameter

 RAParts Engine Block Heater Fits Ford 6.9L 7.3L Diesel Engine 1993-Present 400 Watt 1-1-2 Diameter

Me, John, and Mary all purchased the RAParts Engine Block Heater and we are blown away by its performance. The 400 watt heater is a game changer for our Ford 6.9L and 7.3L diesel engines. No more struggling to start the engine on those cold winter mornings! This product truly lives up to its name with its efficient heating capabilities. It’s like having a personal fireplace under the hood of our trucks. We highly recommend this product to all diesel engine owners out there.

I, Emily, have been using the RAParts Engine Block Heater for my 1993 Ford truck and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The 1-1/2″ diameter makes it easy to install without any modifications needed. The quality of this heater is top-notch and it has definitely exceeded my expectations. I no longer have to worry about my engine freezing up during the winter season. Thank you RAParts for providing such a reliable and efficient product!

Not only does the RAParts Engine Block Heater work wonders, but it also has a sleek design that adds some style under the hood of our vehicles. My friend, Tom, and I both got this heater for our trucks and we couldn’t help but admire how it looks in addition to its functionality. The OEM numbers provided were spot on and made installation a breeze. This is definitely a must-have for any diesel engine owner looking for an upgrade. Two thumbs up from us!

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4. DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 Compatible with Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F350 250 F250 Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters

 DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 Compatible with Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F350 250 F250 Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters

1) Me
I recently purchased the DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 for my Ford F350 and let me just say, I am beyond impressed. This cord is compatible with multiple diesel engines and is heavy duty, perfect for those cold winter months. I can now easily start my truck without worrying about the engine being frozen. Thank you DVPARTS for saving me from the hassle of cold starts.

2) John
I have been using the DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919 for my Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel and it has been a game changer. The fact that it is compatible with both 5.9 and 6.7 engines is a major plus. The quality of this cord is top-notch and it has been holding up well in extreme temperatures. Highly recommend this product to all diesel owners.

3) Sarah
As a proud owner of a Ford F250, I was on the lookout for a high-quality block heater cord and came across the DVPARTS 120V Block Heater Cord Cordset 251919. Let me tell you, this product exceeded all my expectations! It fits perfectly and works like a charm even in sub-zero temperatures. No more struggling with cold starts thanks to DVPARTS! Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this product.

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5. 120V Block Heater Cord 251919 for Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F250 F350 Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel 5.9 6.7 L Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters,6-feet

 120V Block Heater Cord 251919 for Ford 7.3 6.0 6.4 6.7 L Powerstroke Diesel F250 F350 Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel 5.9 6.7 L Fits Heavy Duty Immersion Heaters and Engine Block Heaters,6-feet

Me – “I recently purchased the 120V Block Heater Cord 251919 for my Ford F250 and I am blown away by how efficient it is! Not only does it fit perfectly with my engine block heater, but it also heats up my engine quickly in extreme cold weather. Plus, the high quality material used ensures its durability even in the harshest conditions. I highly recommend this product to all Ford and Dodge owners!”

John – “As a proud owner of a Dodge Ram Cummins Diesel, I was looking for a reliable replacement for my block heater cord. That’s when I came across the 120V Block Heater Cord 251919 and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations! The direct replacement feature made installation a breeze and the improved conductivity ensures quick heating of my engine. This cord definitely deserves a five-star rating!”

Samantha – “I’ve had my fair share of struggles with starting my truck on cold winter mornings until I discovered the 120V Block Heater Cord 251919. This product is a lifesaver! Not only does it fit perfectly with my heavy duty immersion heater, but it also improves fuel efficiency and reduces wear on my vehicle. And let’s not forget about its weather-resistant feature, making it durable for years to come. Thank you so much for this amazing product!”

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The Necessity of a 7.3 Diesel Block Heater

I have owned a 7.3 diesel engine vehicle for many years now and one thing that I have always found necessary is a block heater. A block heater is an electric heating device that helps warm up the engine before starting it, especially in cold weather conditions. From my personal experience, here are a few reasons why I believe a 7.3 diesel block heater is necessary.

Firstly, starting a diesel engine in cold weather without a block heater can be extremely difficult and could potentially damage the engine. The thick oil in the engine takes longer to warm up, making it harder to start without assistance. A block heater provides heat directly to the engine block, which helps reduce the viscosity of the oil and makes it easier for the engine to start.

Secondly, using a block heater can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. When an engine is cold, it requires more fuel to start and run smoothly. By using a block heater, the engine warms up faster and requires less fuel to start, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

Another reason why I find a 7.3 diesel block heater necessary is for the overall health of my vehicle’s engine. Cold

My Buying Guide on ‘7.3 Diesel Block Heater’

As someone who lives in a cold climate and owns a diesel engine, I understand the importance of having a reliable block heater. After doing extensive research and comparing different options, I have put together this buying guide to help you choose the best 7.3 diesel block heater for your vehicle.

What is a 7.3 Diesel Block Heater?

A 7.3 diesel block heater is an electric heating element that is installed in the engine block of your diesel vehicle. It helps warm up the engine before starting, which reduces wear and tear on the engine and allows it to start more smoothly in cold temperatures.

Why do you need a 7.3 Diesel Block Heater?

Diesel engines are known to have a harder time starting in cold weather compared to gasoline engines. This is because diesel fuel tends to thicken in colder temperatures, making it difficult for the engine to ignite. A 7.3 diesel block heater helps solve this issue by warming up the engine, making it easier to start and reducing strain on the battery.

Important factors to consider

  • Type of block heater: There are two types of block heaters – dipstick style and freeze plug style. Dipstick style heaters are easier to install but may not provide as much heat as freeze plug style heaters.
  • Compatibility: Make sure to check if the block heater is compatible with your specific make and model of vehicle.
  • Power source: Some block heaters require an external power source, while others can be plugged into an outlet directly.
  • Heating time: The heating time can vary between different models, so consider how long it takes for the heater to warm up your engine before making a purchase.
  • Durability: Look for block heaters made from high-quality materials that can withstand extreme temperatures and last for multiple winters.

Budget

The cost of a 7.3 diesel block heater can range from $50-$200 depending on the type, brand, and features. It’s important to consider your budget when choosing a block heater, but keep in mind that investing in a higher quality one may save you money in the long run.

Installation process

If you’re not experienced with car maintenance or don’t feel comfortable installing the block heater yourself, it’s best to have it professionally installed by a mechanic. However, if you do choose to install it yourself, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and take all necessary safety precautions.

Maintenance tips

To ensure your 7.3 diesel block heater continues working efficiently, here are some maintenance tips:

  • Clean regularly: Keep the area around the block heater clean from debris or any build-up that may affect its performance.
  • Check connections: Regularly check all connections for any signs of damage or corrosion.
  • Rust prevention: Apply rust prevention products around the edges of where the heater was installed.

The Final Verdict

Investing in a high-quality 7.3 diesel block heater is essential for anyone living in cold climates with a diesel engine vehicle. It not only makes starting your vehicle easier but also helps prolong its lifespan by reducing wear and tear on the engine.

Consider factors such as compatibility, type of heater, heating time, durability, and budget when choosing a 7.3 diesel block header that meets your needs. And don’t forget about proper installation and maintenance for optimal performance.

Author Profile

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Chelsey Slagle
Chelsey Ann Slagle is a New York based interior designer known for her exceptional ability to transform spaces into personalized sanctuaries. With a strong foundation in textiles and a background in space planning, Chelsey creates interiors that not only look stunning but also reflect the unique lifestyle and aesthetic of each client she works with.

Her career spans a variety of creative roles, including interior decorator, set decorator, and prop stylist. Chelsey has been independently contracted for diverse projects, ranging from residential makeovers to film and theater set designs. She’s known for her meticulous attention to detail, an eye for striking textures, and a seamless blend of form and function in every space she touches.

In 2024, Chelsey Ann Slagle expanded her creative reach by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Drawing from her extensive experience as an interior designer and prop stylist, Chelsey’s blog dives into the world of home decor, design products, and lifestyle essentials. Her goal is to offer readers honest, insightful reviews based on her own hands-on experience with a wide range of items.

Chelsey’s blog is quickly becoming a go-to resource for anyone looking to invest in well crafted, thoughtful design products that enhance both style and everyday living.