So I figured out how to install my block heater

[DHonzik]

I just purchased a Engine Block Heater thru Toyota Depot, has anybody used the dealer to install it? If so, how much was the installation cost? I can't believe my MPG drop 4-5 MPG due to the cold weather.

[oly_57mpg]

Originally posted by DHonzik@Nov 19 2005, 10:56 AM
I just purchased a Engine Block Heater thru Toyota Depot, has anybody used the dealer to install it? If so, how much was the installation cost? I can't believe my MPG drop 4-5 MPG due to the cold weather.

[snapback]158123[/snapback]

If you read all of this post you will find your answer.

[ken1784]

Originally posted by kenkneeb@Nov 19 2005, 08:18 AM
I blocked off most of the upper part of the radiator with S-Core, a plastic version of cardboard.

Again, it is not a good idea to block the radiator itself.
The key is keeping the engine room warm.

I use the EV mode as much as possible until the "SYSTEM" kicks it out.

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If you do so, you'll see huge rebounds to charge the battery back to it's desired level.
Your average mileage value will be worse.

Ken@Japan

[hdrygas]

Originally posted by DHonzik@Nov 19 2005, 06:56 AM
I just purchased a Engine Block Heater thru Toyota Depot, has anybody used the dealer to install it? If so, how much was the installation cost? I can't believe my MPG drop 4-5 MPG due to the cold weather.

[snapback]158123[/snapback]

I had my local mechanic do it one hour charge (that was the mininum) 52 as I recall with tax etc. I might have gotten away with a lower price if I had it done with an oil change at the same time.

[baxsie]

After reading this thread, I had my Toyota dealer do it. $111.00. Ouch. That might have been worth the skinned knuckles.

To be fair to the dealer, I just said "do it" and did not ask about or try to negotiate the price. The service writer said he heard a lot of grumbling from the mechanic, so I'm guessing it was not an easy job.

Just FYI, YMMV.

[hdrygas]

Originally posted by baxsie@Nov 20 2005, 04:11 PM
After reading this thread, I had my Toyota dealer do it. $111.00. Ouch. That might have been worth the skinned knuckles.

To be fair to the dealer, I just said "do it" and did not ask about or try to negotiate the price. The service writer said he heard a lot of grumbling from the mechanic, so I'm guessing it was not an easy job.

Just FYI, YMMV.

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I don't know but if you put the car on a lift it would be a piece of cake. The installer ran the wire around the connection points of the plastic front radiator cover in such a fashion that it does not move around. I open the hood and plug it in. I am thinking about getting a space blanket to cover the engine and prevent a chimney effect with the slightly open hood and the heated block. That might increase block heater effect.

[rmnelson]

Thanks to all who contributed to this post, I installed my heater in about an hour. Without your help I would have spent days under the car without ever finding the hole where the heater goes; let alone have it inserted correctly and plugged in. The next order of business is making a partial radiator block out of coroplast. I just used the last piece I had lying around making one for my Insight, so I guess I have to go looking for more roadside sign blight. Recycle junk signs, improve mileage, and improve the view in one easy step!

[Frank Hudon]

So if this is your first post since you joined in May my question to you first after a welcome is how long have you followed this thread?

[hdrygas]

Originally posted by efusco@Nov 18 2005, 03:37 PM
My commutes are as follows:
Work) 13 mile each way to/from work.  The majority I now take a rural 2 lane road route that I average ~39mph on.  There are several stops along the way.  A portion is "city" driving.  I'm fortunate that I rarely drive during rush hours.  I Pulse/glide, when safe will roll-through the stops, but often I can time stop lights to avoid stops there.  Quite rolling hills with 2 300ft climbs.

Kids)About 4 miles each way mostly at 35mph with a short stretch of 45mph.  Again, I can often glide much of that route.  Rolling part way but mostly flat.

How do I do it, I have a VERY good feel for the car at this point and can usually optimize it's efficiency with the gliding and judicious use of the EV button.

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I had a similar experience at about 42F. I got it up to full hybrid in about .4 of a mile, then dipped in and out of the optimal temp zone with radiator blocker for the first 4 miles before Belle would stay above full hybrid temps for the rest of the trip. Belle cools off fast! I hate to think what is going to happen when the temperatures drop!

[efusco]

Originally posted by hdrygas@Nov 26 2005, 10:37 PM
I had a similar experience at about 42F.  I got it up to full hybrid in about .4 of a mile, then dipped in and out of the optimal temp zone with radiator blocker for the first 4 miles before Belle would stay above full hybrid temps for the rest of the trip.  Belle cools off fast!  I hate to think what is going to happen when the temperatures drop!

[snapback]161996[/snapback]

I plugged in the other day at work but the outlet turned out to be 'dead'...man did I notice a difference! I've been religiously plugging in at home and at work and usually only stop elsewhere for an hour at the longest. Starting out with an ice cold ICE had an immediate and dramatic impact on my MPG. I salvaged much of it by the time I arrived home (thanks to empty roads on my way home on Black Friday), but with the heater I'm consistantly getting close to 57mpg even with temps below 40 degrees.