ok my block heater had a leak around it so i took it out to clean and reseal it (silicone sealent) well i go to put it back in and ohsh!t I cant get it to go back in the hole and tighten up

what is the easiest way to get it back in correctly, i want my car to run, help please

 

I-Barry,

I'm presuming you have the freeze plug type block heater, correct? I had one of those, and didn't like the fact that it seemed to create a buildup of deposits around it that wouldn't flush out well. Regardless, if it came out, it should go back in. You might have an obstruction in the case cooling passages, like corrosion, deposits, gasket particles, etc. Reach into the case with a finger and probe around for any obstructions. It is also possible that you may have bent the element when you removed the heater and it is contacting the clyinder(s) when you are trying to reinstall it.

Personally, I've had good luck with the heater hose tank-type heaters with built in check valves that "pump" the coolant through the system. As long as you don't install it in the return line to the radiator, you won't lose all your heat enegy to the air.

 

BTW - I hope this is on your new "toy"... You're NOT driving your '85 around in the snow, are you???

 

vader- thanks for the reply
sorry to say that thisis in the camaro(factory option, i dont use it)
ya its a freeze plug type
getting it into the block isnt the problem
i cant get the wing tightener to fasten down tight against the block, i was wondering if maybe the wing thingy got bent when i took it out could that cause it to not tighten up?

any one else have something to add, please do




barry

 

i got it

the clamp system is a one time use thingy

went and bought a new block heater for 20 bucks