I have a US spec 2013 Landcruiser model URJ200L-GNTEKA and am traveling to Alaska this coming January. We plan to make the drive from Fairbanks to Prudeau Bay as well as other interesting destinations. I would like to install a block heater on my vehicle and would like suggestions as to the optimal heaters including models/part numbers/pros and cons. Also, any other suggestions such as engine blankets, oil pan and battery warmers, etc. would be appreciated. Please let me know if I have posted this incorrectly or should be posting elsewhere as this is my first post on this website. Thank you. Tom Owen
Block Heater and other Winter Preparation
- Thread starter Tom Owen
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I lived up in AK for 4 years with my 5.7 tundra. I used a block heater, a battery pad, and one stuck to the oil pan. When its -40F or colder, these engines make some noise and complain but they always come through. I found them to be MUCH more compliant after plugging in for the night.
I agree you need is a block heater and battery pad. I would also add good set of studded snow tires. I recommend Nokian. If you are dead set against winter tires good quality chains for all 4 wheels. That and extreme cold Winter survival gear.
Down here (SW Idaho) we may have temps in the teens for a week or 2, maybe single digits for 2-3 days.
So far, the only thing I've installed is a battery charger / tender. I've got a Kats cartridge heater that I haven't yet installed...and haven't seen a discussion here as to what they can do...
They seem to have the market cornered, I've got 2 diesel Kubota's that use them, no issues. I'd definitely recommend picking up a spare power cord. Installation is easy but spend time keeping the cord away from hot stuff on or around the engine...exhaust system for instance.
hth and report back with what you get. Congrats on your '13...I bought mine in 2015. Zero issues.
Steve
So far, the only thing I've installed is a battery charger / tender. I've got a Kats cartridge heater that I haven't yet installed...and haven't seen a discussion here as to what they can do...
They seem to have the market cornered, I've got 2 diesel Kubota's that use them, no issues. I'd definitely recommend picking up a spare power cord. Installation is easy but spend time keeping the cord away from hot stuff on or around the engine...exhaust system for instance.
hth and report back with what you get. Congrats on your '13...I bought mine in 2015. Zero issues.
Steve
- Thread starter
- #7
Thank you for your input. You were recommended by SANDROAD. I only plan to be in Alaska for about three weeks so winter tires may be an unnecessay expense. However, chains sound like a good idea. Do you have any model recommendations? You recommend block heaters and battery pads for both batteries. Any model recommendations for those? Additionally, would it be a good idea to change out my engine oil, gear oil, hydraulic fluid, and grease with grades more suited for sub zero temperatures? Should I be looking into oil pan blankets as well? What is essential for extreme cold winter survival gear?
We did this trip last year in my 2012 FJ. We left Seattle on Jan5. I felt a lot better w my nonstudded snow tires. I had a block heater installed, don’t go up there without one. Absolutely take all the warm gear you can. And if you stop to take in the sites don’t turn your car off. It was 50 below without a windchill for several days. We soent about two weeks up there and temp never got above -20. Your car is like a survival capsule. The main thing I noticed on particularity cold days was the number of warning lights that came on. I called the local Toyota dealer and they said not to worry. Turned out fine.
One more thing I could never get my wiper fluid to work up there. The stuff would freeze no matter it’s temp rating.
One more thing I could never get my wiper fluid to work up there. The stuff would freeze no matter it’s temp rating.
- Thread starter
- #10
coleAK, We have not finalized our itinerary but shall drive up from Housto Texas through Canada to Anchorage, Fairbanks, Coldfoot (or Wiseman) and on to Prudhoe Bay. We definately shall overnight in Achorage, Fairbanks, Coldfoot or Wiseman, and Prudhoe Bay. The main reason is to take the road from Faibanks to Prudeau Bay. We shall be photgraphing scenery and wildlife along the way. Suggestions on accomodation and any other outdoor activities are welcome but limited mtelss and temperature in January shall be severely limiting factors. I understand that Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay may be a 4 or 5 day trip to properly do this trip and enjoy the Northern Lights. Depending on time within our approximate 3 week time frame, we may want to travel to other locations along the way. Any itinerary suggestions would be welcome.
Alsation, thank you for your input.
Best, Tom
Alsation, thank you for your input.
Best, Tom
- Thread starter
- #11
coleAK, That is Houston or more specifically Sugar Land not Housto. Also motels not mtelss.
I’ve been in AK for 10 years and have other than 4 years lived in long winter regions. I’m in Anchorage but we drag our camper all over the road system most of the summer. Our last 4 or so winters have been lower snow and overall milder than average. That said we’ve been getting the flip flop of fridges cold and dry to seasonally mild with precipitation then back to cold so everything freezes solid.
I’m not trying to scare you but you will be traveling some of the most remote isolated roads in their most extreme conditions in N America. In the summer there is lots of tour bus traffic but winter for the most part it will be you and tractor trailers and they can be fairly spaced out (hours). That being said you will also be traveling some of the most beautiful, untouched, natural, and raw areas, a true trip of a lifetime.
As for tires. Do you currently have passenger tires? Or ATs? Tires are the #1 factor for safe winter driving. Put a set of Michelin Pilot super sports on a Subaru (I think the winter benchmark) vs a Rwd mustang/camero/charger and the RWD wins. And as the temps drop the winter tires provide more and more of an advantage and the drive you are talking about you could be entirely on snow/ice from the time you cross into Canada until you cross back into the lower 48. We do not salt the roads in AK and on a typical winter my tires don’t touch asphalt for 4-5 months. As for chains get the cross chain style (pictured below) and remember most are sold in pairs and you need 4. And honistly if I was heading across Canada or above Fairbanks that time of year I would have winter tires and carry chains and traction mats. Also the standard recommendation is 3 spare tires...
The weather could be almost anything but pretty much for sure it will windy and dark.
The other equipment I would carry: 1 or 2 surplus style wool blankets, 1-2 cans of spray de icer, a winter windshield cover, good ice scraper and 3-4’ push broom (for snow removal), 1-2 telescoping style snow shovels (picture below), head lamps with extra batteries, took kit with battery impact driver with lug nut socket (22mm), fire starter and 1-2 duraflame logs, a propane tent heater (picture), a jet boil stove (but don’t buy one just for this). I spend a ton of time outdoors and come from a military background (my wife is still active duty) so tend to be over prepared. That said I would also have an ax and camp saw. I would also highly recommend a garmin InReach GPS and satalite messenger.
As for other supply’s/gear, the 3 items you do not want to cut corners and go top quality: Top quality winter boots rated to at least -40, I’ve worn sorel caribou’s for 30 years but there are many good options. Top quality Mountaineering level down mittens And liner gloves. Top quality mountaineering down jacket with hood at least 800 fill.
Now for the rest: good quality 60g or so insulated pants, middle weight fleece top and bottom, light weigh base layers, face mask and or baklava, ski goggles (your can tears freeze at -20 or so), a pack of the disposable hand warmers and toe warmers (they sell big boxes at Costco). Remember you want to be able to cover all your skin many people forget about face and eyes.
If the main reason is to go north of Fairbanks have you looked into ferry from WA to Seward? It would give you the opportunity for marine wildlife as well. But then days on a ferry may add complexity. Honestly the worst part of the drive will most likely be Canada.
It will be an amazing trip if I think of anything else I’ll post it up. And definitely reach out with any questions
As for fluids I don’t change them out from the standard but I’m not regularly cold starting at below -20 and Prestone brand de-icer is by far the best for freeze resistance. And I agree with keeping it running when applicable but also watch your gas you will probably get <10 mpg traveling those roads.
I’m not trying to scare you but you will be traveling some of the most remote isolated roads in their most extreme conditions in N America. In the summer there is lots of tour bus traffic but winter for the most part it will be you and tractor trailers and they can be fairly spaced out (hours). That being said you will also be traveling some of the most beautiful, untouched, natural, and raw areas, a true trip of a lifetime.
As for tires. Do you currently have passenger tires? Or ATs? Tires are the #1 factor for safe winter driving. Put a set of Michelin Pilot super sports on a Subaru (I think the winter benchmark) vs a Rwd mustang/camero/charger and the RWD wins. And as the temps drop the winter tires provide more and more of an advantage and the drive you are talking about you could be entirely on snow/ice from the time you cross into Canada until you cross back into the lower 48. We do not salt the roads in AK and on a typical winter my tires don’t touch asphalt for 4-5 months. As for chains get the cross chain style (pictured below) and remember most are sold in pairs and you need 4. And honistly if I was heading across Canada or above Fairbanks that time of year I would have winter tires and carry chains and traction mats. Also the standard recommendation is 3 spare tires...
The weather could be almost anything but pretty much for sure it will windy and dark.
The other equipment I would carry: 1 or 2 surplus style wool blankets, 1-2 cans of spray de icer, a winter windshield cover, good ice scraper and 3-4’ push broom (for snow removal), 1-2 telescoping style snow shovels (picture below), head lamps with extra batteries, took kit with battery impact driver with lug nut socket (22mm), fire starter and 1-2 duraflame logs, a propane tent heater (picture), a jet boil stove (but don’t buy one just for this). I spend a ton of time outdoors and come from a military background (my wife is still active duty) so tend to be over prepared. That said I would also have an ax and camp saw. I would also highly recommend a garmin InReach GPS and satalite messenger.
As for other supply’s/gear, the 3 items you do not want to cut corners and go top quality: Top quality winter boots rated to at least -40, I’ve worn sorel caribou’s for 30 years but there are many good options. Top quality Mountaineering level down mittens And liner gloves. Top quality mountaineering down jacket with hood at least 800 fill.
Now for the rest: good quality 60g or so insulated pants, middle weight fleece top and bottom, light weigh base layers, face mask and or baklava, ski goggles (your can tears freeze at -20 or so), a pack of the disposable hand warmers and toe warmers (they sell big boxes at Costco). Remember you want to be able to cover all your skin many people forget about face and eyes.
If the main reason is to go north of Fairbanks have you looked into ferry from WA to Seward? It would give you the opportunity for marine wildlife as well. But then days on a ferry may add complexity. Honestly the worst part of the drive will most likely be Canada.
It will be an amazing trip if I think of anything else I’ll post it up. And definitely reach out with any questions
As for fluids I don’t change them out from the standard but I’m not regularly cold starting at below -20 and Prestone brand de-icer is by far the best for freeze resistance. And I agree with keeping it running when applicable but also watch your gas you will probably get <10 mpg traveling those roads.
Also for clothing/gear check out the web sites for sierra training post, steep and cheep, and sportsman’s guide. As for the brand of my block heater I followed the plug and looks like there is a pre set hole and mine just sticks in there and it has a Toyota logo on it. I can’t tell what brand but my battery warmer is the wrap around style. Also general rule is <20F plug it in (yes really +20F) there are public service commercials here about it all winter. Personally I don’t really think about it until it gets in the single digits. Also cold weather rated extension cords, the non cold ones tend to snap off.
Also reading your post again unless you have an access card you can’t drive to Prudhoe Bay. There is a restricted gate at dead horse. When I drive that way pulling my camper I take at least 20 gallons of gas. It’s around 250 miles from Fairbanks to Coldfoot and then another about 250 miles from Coldfoot to Deadhorse. The only reliable place to get gas on that stretch in the winter is cold foot. In the summer The contract organization that do the bus tours set up mobile fueling stations for their buses and I’ve seen one in a dead horse but it will not be there in the winter. Many of the “gas stations” in remote Alaska are somones house with a gas tank. That being said they don’t keep regular business hours as everyone in the community with any gas knows how to get a hold of them if needed.
I’m sure you’ve already looked into it but I would doublecheck where you will be able to get gas and then verify again. You will be limited to probably 180 to 200 miles per tank of gas safely.
That whole stretch you’ll most likely be going 20- 35 mph and getting 10-12 mpg.
I’m sure you’ve already looked into it but I would doublecheck where you will be able to get gas and then verify again. You will be limited to probably 180 to 200 miles per tank of gas safely.
That whole stretch you’ll most likely be going 20- 35 mph and getting 10-12 mpg.
I think it just screws in. End of this week or early next week I’m taking mine to the auto Hobby shop on base. I’ll have it up on a lift To tackle my stripped front differential drain plug. I’ll try and get some pictures of where the block heater is.
To add to ColeAKs comments, be sure to book accommodation ahead of time from Dawson Creek on up. There are so few places open in January. It can be kind of eerie driving through a place where there’s not a soul. Toad River Inn is awesome great food and the lodging is good. Buckshot Betty’s in Beaver Creek is about 20 Miles from the US border and is good also. But again north of Dawson a lot of “hotels” may only have 5 rooms so call ahead. And yes it can be hours of driving and not see anybody. It’s really pretty cool. It’s been about 20 months since my girlfriend and I did it. I’m ready to do it again. Her... not so much.
alstation - good point about lodging. I forget about that since when we head that way in the summer I’m towing my hotel and in the winter for back country in the Brooks, telkeetnas, St Elias, Thompson pass, or for arctic man we are in a tent.
Sorry to post again but in I’ll sum it up. Absolute nessiary: winter tires and/or chains, block heater, battery heater, ice scraper, broom, spray ice melt (in case locks or doors get frozen shut), my clothing recommendations, tow strap, snow shovels, lights.
As for everything else what you have to consider is you probably won’t use it but what if? You go off the road in a white out or get stuck in a snow drift or the road slides out in the Brooks and are stuck at -20F to -40F for 6 hours, hit a moose, have a flat (or 2), wake up to 2+ feet of snow, wake up to 3+ inches of ice, or many other possible emergencies. Also forgot to mention if you are on any chronic medications take extra as well as basic first aide. Much of your trip the closest hospital or auto service center could be roughly the distance from you in TX to the California boarder.
True fact the mat Su fire station covers a area the size of Virginia... with 2 helos and 5 ambulances.
And I highly recommend a garmin InReach for satalite messaging, we now have 3 of them (all the Explorer+)
And the luxury item you’ll be most thankful for is toe and hand warmers. I just got 4 boxes each from Costco.
Sorry to post again but in I’ll sum it up. Absolute nessiary: winter tires and/or chains, block heater, battery heater, ice scraper, broom, spray ice melt (in case locks or doors get frozen shut), my clothing recommendations, tow strap, snow shovels, lights.
As for everything else what you have to consider is you probably won’t use it but what if? You go off the road in a white out or get stuck in a snow drift or the road slides out in the Brooks and are stuck at -20F to -40F for 6 hours, hit a moose, have a flat (or 2), wake up to 2+ feet of snow, wake up to 3+ inches of ice, or many other possible emergencies. Also forgot to mention if you are on any chronic medications take extra as well as basic first aide. Much of your trip the closest hospital or auto service center could be roughly the distance from you in TX to the California boarder.
True fact the mat Su fire station covers a area the size of Virginia... with 2 helos and 5 ambulances.
And I highly recommend a garmin InReach for satalite messaging, we now have 3 of them (all the Explorer+)
And the luxury item you’ll be most thankful for is toe and hand warmers. I just got 4 boxes each from Costco.
I've never photographed @ those Xtreme temps. Can one trip a shutter button w/glove liners, arctic mitts/gloves on? A bare shutter button finger can't be tolerated for very long. I'm used to cable release/tripod/quick release head most of the time, which tolerate gloves/mittens better. Wouldn't want to assemble those items every time I want out for a shot.
