Ok - first- an 85 should not need a block heater. Of course it always helps,and if you hav...
Ok - first- an 85 should not need a block heater. Of course it always helps,and if you have one,(heater is located just above starter in block),do NOT leave it in all night. This will not only consume lots of electricity,(it's 400 watts) but will cause premature wear of the heater. A heater should last many years. The block heater only needs 2.5 to 3 hours to warm up the block. Purchase an appliance timer, capable of switching a 15 amp load, and a good heavy duty extension cord. Do not get one thats too long. It should be just the right length. Set the timer for a few hours before you plan to leave the house. Second- the most overlooked thing to do to your 1985 and down diesel, 240's and 300's, are the valves. They MUST be done prior to the winter months. The design of the valve train on these engines are different than all other engines. As temps outside decrease, the clearances decrease. If the valve clearances are too tight, they get tighter as it gets colder. This means that the valves do not close meaning super low to no compression. As we know, diesels require compression. At least 350 psi. Even if one cylinder is too tight, it will be hard to start. 5 cylinders need 5 to start , 4's need all 4. I hope this makes sense to all. So remember, always adjust your valves once a year, and do them COLD,first thing in the morning.(it's the least you can do for the engine that gave you no trouble the rest of the year). Make sure the 80 or 50 amp fuse is good. You should make it a habit of changing it when the valves are adjusted. Check the glow plugs for proper operation. If one is bad, change all. You don't want to do them when it's cold,and you only want to open the hood this winter to check the oil. A properly adjusted, good glow plug ,good fueled car will start when it's cold. PS.. the number ONE cause of a burned valve is one thats out of adjustment.....