Block Heater Help Needed

[postman56]

Hi everyone, I wanted to install a OEM block heater in my wife's 06 Pilot for it's a USA vehicle and didn't come with one, and at times in Canada we could really use it.
I purchased the block heater but for the life of me I couldn't get a good hold of the drain plug on the lower part of the radiator to drain it to get going.

There is a small window there but the radiator I assume hasn't been drained in years so it could be pretty tight.
Is there a tool for this application, for taking the dozen or so shroud clips off isn't really a option for me.

Also I think I se where the block heater goes in just to the right front of the block, but it's a guessing game as well.
Any help would be greatly appreciated for I didn't think it would be this tough to do this simple job..YIKES!!

[xGS]

Originally Posted by postman56

Hi everyone, I wanted to install a OEM block heater in my wife's 06 Pilot for it's a USA vehicle and didn't come with one, and at times in Canada we could really use it.
I purchased the block heater but for the life of me I couldn't get a good hold of the drain plug on the lower part of the radiator to drain it to get going.

There is a small window there but the radiator I assume hasn't been drained in years so it could be pretty tight.
Is there a tool for this application, for taking the dozen or so shroud clips off isn't really a option for me.

Also I think I se where the block heater goes in just to the right front of the block, but it's a guessing game as well.
Any help would be greatly appreciated for I didn't think it would be this tough to do this simple job..YIKES!!

Do you have these instructions: http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/...r_AII30494.pdf

Even though it's for the 09-11MY, see if this thread helps: Engine Block Heater Install Questions

IIRC, the radiator drain bolt has a wing-nut like head on it.
Try to grip it with a pair of pliers or tap on one of the "wings" with a small hammer.

[steph]

Postman 56,

At the garage where I work, if the plastic drain plug won't come out, we usually undo the lower rad hose. Its a bit messier, but at least you won't damage the rad or snap the drain plug. Just make sure the engine is nice a cold, no pressure in the cooling system.

Steph

[postman56]

Thanks everyone for the help, I think opening the radiator cap helped somewhat,and the white wing nut finally gave it up!!
It was a bloddy challenge to locate the block heater plug I'll tell you
that,well hidden under the front wall to the right if your standing towards the engine and it was as tight as all heck but I did finally get the block heater installed.