Installation Questions For Kats Custom Engine Block Heater # KH11412 For 2017 Nissan Pathfinder SL

Updated 11/13/2019 | Published 11/12/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Kat's Heaters Custom Engine Block Heater - Frost Plug Style - 120V - 400 Watts - 30 mm

(119)

$71.70

Question:

Do I need thread sealant? Do I need to drain the coolant? Do I need thermal grease?

asked by: Jacob

Helpful Expert Reply:

Kat's recommends using the plug located on the Left Front (LF per included diagram) drivers side on the engine closest to the grill for installing the Kat's Heaters Custom Engine Block Heater part # KH11412 in your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder.

The instructions state not to use any form of sealant around the O ring. This will prevent the heater from fully seating and could cause leaks. Step 5 below is the only mention of the use of silicone grease specifically.

The following is from the installation instructions regarding your other questions:
1) Refer to the most current catalog for the correct part number and position of freeze plug heater. If you supplier does not have it, this is available at www.fivestarmanufacturing.com
2) Drain the cooling system, flush radiator and block.
3) Remove the correct freeze plug or existing heater with a punch; be careful not to nick the wall of the freeze plug hole. Remove any burrs, sharp edges, paint or compound from the machined surface of the hole.
4) Remove outer O ring from heater, place in hole with the element in the direction prescribed.
The element should not touch anything inside. If it does rotate the heater until the element is free floating.
5) Lubricate O ring and machined surface of the hole with anti-freeze or silicone grease to facilitate installation and prevent O ring damage.
6) Reinstall O ring. Back-off heater nut as far as possible, insert heating element in proper direction, center heater in hole. And press tight. Tighten bolt to recommended torque. Do not use the screw to draw the heater into the hole. Do not over torque the bolt, this could damage the inner O ring and cause a leak or strip the threads of the bolt.
7) Route the cord to any convenient point and tie cord down. Keep cord away from hot surfaces and moving parts. Always have the cord attached to the heater before plugging the cord into the wall.
8) Refill the coolant system. Check manufacturer’s instructions on mixture of anti-freeze. Do not use more that 60% anti-freeze. Use of non distilled water could result in lime or calcium buildup on elements and cause premature burn out of heater. Run engine until internal thermostat opens and continue running for 20 minutes to eliminate air pockets. Test drive the vehicle and Check for leaks.
9) Plug heater into power supply and test for proper operation. The block around the heater should get hot. The only way to check a heater is with an Ohms meter or some other device that will check continuity. If the heater shows continuity then check the power supply including extension cord.