Hi,

I just updated the section on the block heater includinig the only known source, Toyota of Canada, and the part number, C0140 00885. It also includes a caution against the coolant type heaters, like those from JC Whitney, due the lack of suitable coolant ports on the ICE.

Depending upon when Fall weather arrivies, we are 3-5 months away from efficiency robbing, cold weather. If you do 'self-maintenance', you might consider getting the $55-60 part and installing it before the cold weather arrives. Our friends in Japan report saving ~100 ml. (about a cup) each day from the pre-heat. Since my NHW11, 03 Prius lacks the thermos found in the NHW20, an ICE preheater is my only option.

I'll document my installation after I get it up and running along with my transaxle oil heater.

Bob Wilson

 

Hi Bob,

As always, thank you for your update of the nice FAQ.

I would like to comment one thing...
You wrote " In cold weather, an engine block heater can save...".
The block heater saves gas not only in cold weather but also in summer.
It is very good weapon to save gas on ICE warming up in all season, especially for short trips.
People are saying they can't stop using it even in summer, it's like drugs.

Ken@Japan

 

From what I'd seen in the transaxle oil temperature measurements, I suspected this was the case. I'll fix the FAQ. I was planning to verify the summer effects before making the change but your posting is enough for me.

THANK YOU!

Bob Wilson