Can I install an engine warmer on my 2002 Volkswagen Passat?

Back in the 1970s it was possible to fit an engine warmer retrospectively by removing a frost plug and screwing in a coiled electric element, like a small electric kettle element. I understand that frost plugs may now be just that, a plug of copper only, and that electric elements appear not to be known about today.

I am driving a 10-year-old high mileage Volkswagen Passat which I plan to take to Norway next February. I will be living with electricity on hand and have a new battery. I can take a motorcycle trickle charging system with me which I assume will help the battery withstand lows of -40 degrees Celsius, but I would prefer something that can warm my engine coolant. Any advice will be appreciated.

Asked on 29 September 2012 by DM, via email

Answered by Honest John

Kenlowe of Maidenhead used to offer a block heater, but the choice is obviously much wider in Norway where it is much more relevant. Water-cooled turbos partly do this job on petrol engines because feeding coolant through an exhaust manifold turbo heats the coolant up very quickly.

Tags: cold weather petrol engines turbo engines

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