The closer your engine is to operating temp. when you start it the better. Any vehicle that operates in areas where the temp goes below about 20F will benefit, as will the atmosphere. The idea is that a warm engine circulates lubricant better/faster, hence less wear at start up. I have yet to put one no our van as I have not had time, but it will get one soon. I have not checked yet, but my local shops tell me that the unit of choice is a pad style. Basically a self adhesive heating pad that runs off 110 household current. Anyone know of other options that will work? For those father north than I, they often also use battery blankets, and pan heaters for their automatic transmissions. Synthetic lubricants will help a great deal also.

Mark in AK

A while ago I saw someone mentioning the benefits of an engine block
heater for the winter.  Any opinions on this?  How much do they cost?  And
where can one get one?  I'm in chicago---is this something I should look
into to extend the life of my van?

Thanks,
wes

'84 vanagon 1.9l