2011 gas engine block heater install problem

[Frits]

While fixing a broken exhaust manifold bolt I thought it would be a good time to install a block heater.

 

I found the plug that has to be removed above the oil filter. It’s a 17mm hex drive. I tried to remove the plug with my snap-on impact and it won’t budge. I upped the psi to 115 and laid on the trigger for a minute straight, nothing.

 

What gives?

[davester]

Say hello to a breaker bar, perhaps with a cheater bar extension...

[Frits]

First I tried a 3/8th ratchet with a big wrench on the handle, my 17mm hex driver is 3/8th drive.

I can try the half-inch breaker bar with a cheater bar on it but I’m afraid to mess up the threads in the block or something, I wasn’t expecting it to be so tight.

[CamGTP]

I like to use a little bit of heat as well. Helps expand the metal on the block a little and loosen any thread sealant.

[carkhz316]

Let us know how it goes as I'm looking into the idea of installing one too. I know, MN doesn't get that cold typically, but my truck still struggled back in January, despite with a newer/ good battery, when we had high day temps of -35* and -67* with windchill.

[davester]

windchill numbers aren't relevant to vehicles.  they only get as cold as the ambient temperature is.

[Frits]

I still haven't done anything with this. I might try to put some heat on it and see what happens.