New little find

[anti*commander]

Today while checking my driver side ball joint i happened to notice a little plug hanging by its cap on the lower radiator mount. So i guess it turns out that i have an engine block heater.

What exactly is the advantage to this, and is it stock on a 99 XLT?

 

[JDraper]

It may be stock for vehicles sold in cold climates (Canada, etc.), but it's not standard. The advantage is that you can keep the engine warm in sub zero temperatures, which helps it to start easier and prevents damage to the motor on VERY cold startups.