Engine block heater

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(gazz @ May 9 2007, 06:37 AM) [snapback]438143[/snapback]</div>

I hope it gets below 50C for the whole year!

Mine has a standard 110V US-style plug. I don't know if it will work with, or is otherwise available for, European electrical connections.

 

It's a 115V device. You could use a transformer to power it. You'd need a unit capable of handling 500 Watts or so. You can order the block heater from the dealer mentioned in one of the block heater threads. I suspect you would burn it out if you plugged it directly into 240V. The 60 Hz/50 Hz difference would have little if any effect.

 

Find the manufacturer for the EBH and contact the manufacturer. They might manufacture a 240V version. Finally, find the distributor in your area that carry it.

My EBH is coming. Once I got it, I can try to do some research. B)

 

Japanese hypermilers are using EBH all year long, even at 80F and above.
It helps to improve the first 5 min mileage number a lot at any temperature.
AFAIK, there is only 115V version EBH for Prius available from Toyota Canada.

Ken@Japan

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(ken1784 @ May 10 2007, 02:50 PM) [snapback]439332[/snapback]</div>

Thank you Ken, that is good to know. I suppose I'll keep mine plugged in year round then. I have it on a timer.

 

For the benefit of others the European engine block heater info is posted here.

Wayne

 

I've been wondering about optimal length of time for the EBH to be on, specifically for different outside temperatures. Does any one have any guidelines? Thanks for any help.

 

Above 20F about 3 hours, below 20F as long as you can.

Wayne

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(FireEngineer @ May 11 2007, 05:30 PM) [snapback]440214[/snapback]</div>

Thanks Wayne, I was hoping you would answer. One more question, how long does it take to recoup the cost of the EBH? Again, just asking for a ballpark figure. Thanks.

 

I think that was explained in the mega-block heater thread. Basically it will depend on your electric rate and how often (diligent) you plug in and the difference in the MPG of your first five minute bar pre and post block heater. Besides the straight payback don't forget the environmental benefit of producing less greenhouse gases upon start up, and the even less wear to the engine, and the faster warm-up in the winter.

And don't forget to receive the full benefit go to your local home improvement/hardware store and spend $2 for some pipe insulation for your grill to keep everything nice and cozy.

Wayne

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(gazz @ May 17 2007, 07:58 AM) [snapback]444049[/snapback]</div>

$49 for mine.

Wayne installed it, so I'll defer the installation question to him. Maybe you can entice him to do yours.

 

Hobbit did a great job documenting the steps. After getting access to engine, the actual install is straight forward.

Bob Wilson

 

My EBH made a huge difference!! My last three tanks have averaged 53.4 mpg. Before that I was around 49-50. Back when FireEngineer installed mine (in the winter) it made even more of a difference, my mileage went from about 45 mpg up to about 50-52 mpg. That alone was worth it, plus the air from the heat syster gets hot faster.

 

Look in the giant engine block heater thread where both Evan and Ken provided pictures of the hole you would be looking for. From the underside it is a blind fitting with a single hand. Best to find the most comfortable path for your arm from the mid-point of the car angled up toward the left a bit to find the cylinder outside and then the hole on the engine block.

Once you are oriented you would use the provided silicone thermal coating around most of the block heater cylinder, leave a small uncoated stripe the length of the heater so you don't get an air lock fitting it in, this makes it mutch harder to push in to the cylinder. Reach up and push it into the cylinder, if you have a clip for retention it will be facing the rear of the car where the retention edge is cast onto the cylinder. If you have a screw retainer check the orientation with the instructions. Once installed and secured thread the cord down from the top down the back of the space where the inverter and engine meet. Plug in the cord to block heater, again from the underside. HINT, before any installation prefit the cord end into the block heater end, makes it easier later. HINT, remember the orientation of the reception end in the heater and the cord end so as to not have to take both out to reconcile there orientations. Once the cord is plugged into the heater route the plug end to your preference outside the car and enjoy.

Alternate-use Hobbits method from the top, you must disassemble the cowl and some compoenents but it would be possible to see the hole if you take the bonnet off for access.

2nd alternate-One plane ticket, I'll fly coach and even take the red eye.

If you do this yourself, if possible, please document and take pictures for posting here to help other European Prius owners.

Wayne

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Rangerdavid @ May 17 2007, 06:49 AM) [snapback]444087[/snapback]</div>

I used the EBH yesterday for the first time in warm weather. It was in the upper 70's yesterday afternoon. I got 50 mpg in the first 5 minute block. Even at the same temperatures without the heater, I would only get about 35 mpg. In the winter, even with the EBH I'd only get about 35 mpg, but without it more like 25 mpg.

Dave M.

 

The block heater is a $150 option here in Canada. Except the Prius I just purchased new came with it here in Edmonton. I didn't see it listed on the paperwork. Being a car dealership, I'm sure they charged me for it, I just don't see it listed.