Troubleshooting Light Burning Smell with Kat's Cartridge Heater

Updated 05/02/2018 | Published 05/01/2018

Question:

Good morning, A couple months back, I purchased the Kats Heaters Custom Fit Engine Block Heater, part number KH11813 for my 2017 Tacoma SR5. I installed it myself per the instructional video, but when I went to plug it in I noticed a light burning smell after an hour or so. Two things, I accidentally unplugged the heater element from the extension cord when adjusting it, and used dielectric grease to slide it into the slot. Would either of these factors cause that, or is it normal for a new element? I havent used it since that day for fear of causing damage and would look at it again when it was warmer to get under the truck. Thanks.

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

The dielectric grease on that strong a currant could be causing that burning smell or if you didn't completely clean out that cartridge hole. This installation is intended to be in a dry socket and you are most likely smelling something indirect if the cord is not getting overly hot. The dielectric grease shouldn't be an issue if it was not on the heated element itself.

I recommend checking the cord for excessive heat and double checking your connection. The heated cartridge will get very hot and is intended to.

expert reply by: Jason S