A block heater is not optional up here. All new cars come with them. The temp can dip to -45* C up here occasionally, so if you don't have a block heater, you may not get your car started. Not to mention the wear it saves on that initial crank, when the oil is the consistency of jelly... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

They only need to be plugged in for a few hours to get the coolant up to optimal temp, so a timer is a good idea on the outlet.

I put one in my 2.6 with the engine in. I would've done the same on the 3.0 if I hadn't had to pull the engine out (this truck came from KC, but I used my old engine). There are also lower rad hose heaters, which I have used with good luck. They are not as effective as block heaters, but much easier to put in, and probably just as good if the temperature is not as extreme.

PHIL