2009 Prius - desludge?

I would replace the engine coolant pump on the used engine if there are any signs of coolant weeping at the pump bearing weep hole. Replace rubber parts such as the coolant hoses and the serpentine drive belt. Consider replacing the engine mounts given the high odometer reading on your car.

Regarding used engines, the 79K mile example you suggested sounds promising. You could inspect the combustion chambers via the spark plug holes as you earlier posted.

You may also want to consider replacing the transaxle at the same time, given the 180K miles already logged by your car. That won't require any incremental labor effort because the engine/transaxle typically will be removed as an entire unit from the car.

Since you have an inspection camera, can you see anything of interest by inserting that camera into the engine drain pan hole of your existing engine - perhaps more sludge as an example?

 

A "leakdown test" gives you the same diagnostic info as a compression test, but without the need to crank the engine. Instead you need a leakdown tester and an air compressor. (Although you don't need the ability for the engine to crank, you do need to be able to get a wrench on the crankshaft bolt, turn the crank by hand to four different test positions, and hold it there against turning when you apply air pressure.)

Another fun thing with a leakdown tester is that if there is a high leak rate, you can usually hear where it's going. In your present engine, for example, you'd probably hear and see radiator bubbles.

If you're looking at an engine that isn't local, you could ask the seller if they'll give leakdown numbers for it (which you could then replicate with your own tester as an acceptance test, before investing much labor into installing it). But be careful to check what make/model of tester they use because, last I checked, there's no standard orifice diameter for auto engine leakdown testers. The FAA does have a standard spec, for testers for planes. WIth auto testers, a result is only comparable to another result from the same tester model. OTC sells an inexpensive one.

-Chap

 

Just search the Internet, there are many private party's parting out and you should be able to pick up an engine reasonably , look on Craig's list, put in a wanted ad. You may find somebody who's willing to extend some sort of guarantee. Pat and Eds advice are invaluable. You have a real advantage over most, you are not afraid to tackle anything. Keep us posted.

 

Steve at Prius hybrids sales and service Scottsburg Indiana will sell and install a low mileage engine at a reasonable cost. His shop is in southern Indiana which is not too far from Ohio.

JeffD

 

With those problems on a Gen II @180,000 miles...time to buy new car. As much as I love my Prii, there's a point in every vehicle's life where it just doesn't make sense to throw money at them anymore. Sure you might locate a used engine for it (with questionable history), but the rest of the car is wore out too. It served you well. They are making real good deals on 2015s...especially this week! Even another used Prius with no problems and a lot less miles...maybe? That's what I would do at least. YMMV.

 

An excellent solution and price, good luck with the repair.

Yes, I would be very interested to see the photos that you can take. I noticed Costco recently was selling an inspection camera and was wondering whether it might be worth purchasing.

 

Say Hi to Steve from me. He is a great guy and knows more about Gen2 Prii than Toyota.

JeffD