Engine block heater

dglas · #1 (**permalink**) 11-12-2002, 07:52 PM

Has anyone had a block heater installed. The local service dept. wants $45 for the heater and $150 to install it. With tax I am over $200. Is this in the ball park?

HotRod8 · #2 (**permalink**) 11-12-2002, 08:39 PM

Mine was $150 CDN, roughly $95.00 US, installed. They are mandatory here, they won't sell the truck without it.

Tundraholic · #3 (**permalink**) 11-12-2002, 10:34 PM

Can you tell me more about the block heater. Is it from Toyota, how does it install, and where on the block does it attach?

Thanks

Tundraholic

KLS · #4 (**permalink**) 11-12-2002, 10:53 PM

dglas,

Have you checked with an independent shop? They'll probably charge less. It's an easy job, but tough access.

Tundraholic,

You don't need one in Texas. Here's more info:
http://www.aklung.org/airquality11.htm
http://cartalk.cars.com/Columns/Arch...7/June/11.html

Ken

dglas · #5 (**permalink**) 11-13-2002, 08:32 PM

I have ordered the heater from Romaniatoyotaparts. Cost $28 with no shipping charge.
It is a Toyota part. I will check with my regular shop for installation. This part goes into the soft plug on the block. I am a little concerned about the leaking problem as stated in the link provided by Ken. Always something to worry about.

Doug

KLS · #6 (**permalink**) 11-13-2002, 09:45 PM

Most soft plug heaters don't leak, including the one I had in my car for years. Just keep an eye on the heater and on the fluid level in your coolant overflow tank.

Ken

fltundra · #7 (**permalink**) 11-13-2002, 10:18 PM

Check these out, they heat the oil instead of the engine block.
Have one on my 2000 limited trd for three years now.
http://www.engineheaters.com/