1. Attachments are working again! Check out this thread for more details and to report any other bugs.

Installed block heater in 2010 last night

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Accessories and Modifications' started by bensmail, Feb 5, 2010.

  1. bensmail

    bensmail New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 24, 2009
    16
    5
    0
    Location:
    Maine
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    II
    Took my Prius to my brother's friends house last night who has a heated garage with a lift. My brother is an auto mechanic and it took us (him) about 90 minutes to figure out where it goes and install the block heater.

    He did not leave any DNA behind and we did not remove the wiper arms etc... We had to raise and lower the car several times (mostly while trying to find exactly where this heater goes)

    One tip for anyone else trying this, the hole for the block heater is facing to the side of the car (drivers side) we were looking for it in the back at first. With the right tools (plenty of choices for socket extensions etc..) you can do this just as easy without removing all the wiper parts and shields. All we did was unbolt holders for two sets of cables and remove the plastic panel under the engine. One specialty tool for running the wire was a bent coat hanger hook.

    Plugged it in for about an hour this morning and the auto heat fan was speeding up significantly within 1/3 of a mile from my driveway.
     
    #1 bensmail, Feb 5, 2010
    2 people like this.
  2. ScottG10

    ScottG10 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    132
    7
    0
    Location:
    Bothell Wa.
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Thanks very much for the insight!
    You've saved us novices a lot of time.
     
    #2 ScottG10, Feb 6, 2010
  3. FireEngineer

    FireEngineer Active Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2004
    1,247
    124
    0
    Location:
    SW-Side of Chicago, IL
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    IV
    Good to hear you were successful. What I wouldn't do for a heated garage and lift at times when I do these. The procedure is very much like for the Gen II so people should use those instructions to insert the heater element. The Gen III document Hobbit did works for the routing of the cord. And I agree, no need to take the wipers or cowl off.
    Do try a timer with a 3 hour pre-heat when the ambient around your car is less than 50F. At an ambient around your car of less than 20F plug in as long as you can. Using these guidelines I've seen starting engine temps from 60-80F above ambient.

    Wayne
     
    #3 FireEngineer, Feb 7, 2010
  4. bensmail

    bensmail New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 24, 2009
    16
    5
    0
    Location:
    Maine
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    II
    I have x10 installed in my house so today I'm setting up a timer that will turn it on in the morning M-F and on the weekends I'll turn it on manually and it will shut off 3 hours later.

    I found a 3 pack of short 7" extension cords at Big Lots for $4 and put one of those on the end to save the original plug end from damage. I also got 1/2 pipe insulation and blocked the bottom grill 100% and 40% of the top grill.
     
    #4 bensmail, Feb 7, 2010
(You must log in or sign up to post here.)