16
Cold Weather Operation (6.7L V8 Diesel)
e use of the factory engine block heater assists in engine starting in extreme cold ambient temperatures. e
engine block heater plug is located behind the front bumper on the passenger side frame rail.
Note: e heater is most eective when outdoor temperatures are below 0°F (-18°C).
e heater acts as a starting aid by warming the engine coolant. is allows the climate control system to respond
quickly. e equipment includes a heater element (installed in the engine block) and a wire harness. You can
connect the system to a grounded 120-volt AC electrical source.
• Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cord that is product certied by Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) or Canadian
Standards Association (CSA). is extension cord must be suitable for use outdoors, in cold temperatures, and be
clearly marked Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances.
• Use as short of an extension cord as possible
• Do not use multiple extension cords
• To avoid electrical shock or re make sure that the extension cord plug and heater cord plugs are free and clear
of water
• Make sure your vehicle is parked in a clean area, clear of combustibles
• Make sure the heater cord and extension cords are rmly connected
• Check for heat anywhere in the electrical hookup once the system has been operating for approximately 30
minutes
• Make sure the system is unplugged and properly stowed before driving your vehicle. Make sure the protective
cover seals the prongs of the block heater cord plug when not in use.
• Make sure the heater system is checked for proper operation before winter. Make sure the receptacle terminals
are clean and dry prior to use. Clean them with a dry cloth if necessary.
e heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours of energy per hour of use. e system does not have a thermostat. It
achieves maximum temperature aer approximately three hours of operation. Using the heater longer than three
hours does not improve system performance and unnecessarily uses electricity.
Your vehicle is equipped with a fuel and water separator that recirculates fuel from the engine to help prevent
fuel lter clogging. To avoid engine fuel starvation during cold weather operation of 32°F (0°C) or below, the
manufacturer recommends that the fuel level in your tank should not drop below 1⁄4 full. is helps prevent air
from entering the fuel system and stalling the engine.
In cold weather below 32°F (0°C), the engine may slowly increase to a higher idle speed if le idling in P (Park)
due to the engine warming. As the engine warms up, the engine sound level decreases due to the activation of PCM
controlled sound reduction features.
If you operate your vehicle in a heavy snowstorm or blowing snow conditions, snow and ice can clog the engine
air induction. If this occurs, the engine may experience a signicant reduction in power output. At the earliest
opportunity, clear all the snow and/or ice away from inside the air lter assembly. Remove the air cleaner cover
and the pleated paper lter, leaving the foam lter in and remove any snow or ice. Make sure you install the foam
lter correctly in place. Remove any debris, snow or ice on the foam lter by brushing the surface with a so brush.
Once you have cleared all of the debris, reinstall the air lter and assembly.