68 with extra radiator hose. What is it for? (PICS)

[OldBlue1968]

Just bought a 68 with a 289 that has a radiator leak. Noticed that my current radiator seems to have an extra hose attached to it where the petcock would normally be. Looks like it was welded to the radiator. There is a canister connected to the hose and then a hose from the canister to a Y connector to the hose from the waterpump before it goes into the firewall. Any idea what this is and why it might have been added? Can I remove this and use a normal radiator?

The hose from the top of the canister ends here.

 

[2+2GT]

Looks like a rather odd engine heater to me. They are usually just connected in a heater hose, though.

 

[OldBlue1968]

Thanks! That is exactly what it is. Didn't check before, but it has a wire coming out of the bottom of the canister. Traced that and found a hidden 120V plug!

 

[gonzothegreat]

rare item?

 

[mustangman1974]

Its to keep the car warm in colder climates. Kind of an engine heater of sorts.