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Dorman seat heaters?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by Bluedogz, Aug 31, 2014.

  1. Bluedogz

    Bluedogz Junior Member

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    Location:
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    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius
    Model:
    Two
    So, I've just ordered a set of Dorman seat heaters/:


    As I prep for the project before they arrive, I find a couple of things I need to know:

    1) In order to remove the driver's seat, I'll need to undo the rear seat bolts, both of which are covered by plastic shell covers. The left cover popped right off, but the right doesn't seem to want to cooperate. Has anyone done this, have any input?
    2) I have plenty of dashboard real estate to install the switch- 5 blanks to the left of the steering wheel (by the mirror-adjust switch), and one below the SKS Start button. The switch requires a 22/32" (yeah- 3/4") hole. Does Toyota make any sort of blank switch housing to install in these spaces? Or am I just drilling a hole?
    3) Kit comes with an add-a-fuse sort of tap. Any recommendations on which circuit is best to use?
     
  2. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    These switches fit perfectly in the locations where the blanks are to the left of the steering wheel:

    http://pages.ebay.com/motors/link/?nav=item.view&id=281114991421&alt=web

    If the seat heaters use more amps than the switch is rated, use a relay between the fuse tap and the switch.

    In our Prius, there are unused seat heater fused circuits in the fuse box under the left dashboard. I tapped the circuit for all of my Ready mode power needs.

    SCH-I535
     
  3. Bluedogz

    Bluedogz Junior Member

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    Two
  4. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    Three
    Oops, didn't realize that the seat heaters had 3 position switches.

    I guess you're going to have to mount the Dorman switch somewhere.

    SCH-I535
     
  5. Bluedogz

    Bluedogz Junior Member

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    Location:
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    2012 Prius
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    Two
    I'm hoping to make it pretty, if not an OEM-clone. I can just drill the blank, but I'm afraid there won't be enough left of it when I'm done.

    How about getting the seat out? Any thoughts?