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Does a 1997 Ford F-350 crew cab 7.3 powerstroke diesel have block heater and where is it?

Yes, a 1997 Ford F-350 Crew Cab with the 7.3 Power Stroke diesel engine almost certainly came with a factory-installed block heater. Ford offered them as standard or optional equipment on these trucks, but they were very common.

The location of the block heater varies slightly depending on the specific engine configuration but is generally located:

* On the driver's side of the engine block: Look near the thermostat housing, often towards the lower front of the engine block. It will be a cylindrical heating element with a cord leading to a plug for connection to an external power source.

* Sometimes partially obscured: The heater might be partially hidden behind components like the alternator or other engine accessories. You may need a flashlight and possibly some maneuvering to see it clearly.

To be certain:

1. Check your owner's manual: This is the best place to start. It should specify whether your truck has a block heater and its location.

2. Look closely at the engine block: Armed with the knowledge of its likely location, carefully examine the driver's side of the engine.

3. Follow the cord (if visible): If you see a cord running from the engine to an exterior connection point, it leads you to the heater.

If you can't find it, a mechanic familiar with 7.3 Power Stroke engines can easily locate it or determine if one was ever installed.