The Prius Experiment

[Phase]

Originally Posted by Blacktree

Florida is called the sunshine state, for good reason. At this latitude, the sunlight is more direct. And it can be absolutely brutal.

I don't have much to report, regarding the Prius. I took a mini-vacation for my birthday. When I got back home, there was a trailer hitch waiting for me. So I installed it.

Also, the car just gave a P1121 error code. I think that's for the coolant control valve. Looks like it controls coolant flow through the heater core and the thermos bottle. So I ordered a replacement.

Like I mentioned earlier, the BMW is about to undergo major surgery. The Prius eco-mods will be put on hold, while I focus on that. But I'll try to work in some maintenance on the Prius... like the aforementioned water valve, and the front control arms.

Edit to add: I forgot to mention, so far the upper grille block has not caused any overheating. The highest coolant temperature I've seen is 90*C. And the ambient temperatures are 90-95*F. Yep, I just mixed units. LOL

More like the rainiest state in America!

[Blacktree]

According to this list, we're #5: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/...f-america.html

Today, I got a new trouble code (P1116). That appears to refer to the thermos bottle temperature. And I'm guessing it's related to the P1121, since the control valve controls coolant flow through the thermos bottle. So either the wiring connection on the control valve is bad, or the valve itself is bad. Anyway, I have a new control valve. So we'll have to get that installed soon.

[ps2fixer]

Another thing worth checking is any hoses if there are any. Dry rotted and cracked/broken hoses could throw off the pressure/vacuum readings. Don't know anything about that sensor but figured it's worth mentioning.

[redpoint5]

I ran a full grill block 3 seasons (in my gen III) and never overheated, and only once noticed the cooling fan kick on as I continually ascended Mt. Hood from Hood River.

[hayden55]

Yup same. I towed from 100k to 190k with my prius. Bass boat, jet skis, trailer with two motorcycles, fridges, washer and dryer, boat motors, etc... All with the grill blocked. Highest temp i ever saw was 202F. They are pretty good at towing too if you keep it below like 1100 pounds.

[Blacktree]

My little trailer has 1090 lb capacity, so it should be fine.

[ps2fixer]

Over seas they are rated for around 1600 lbs. They can haul more than you'd think, just not exactly within their design limitations lol.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1hmeUI2gus

[ps2fixer]

I think this is where that guy got the idea from, Toyota's have build integrity lol.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUWMc92W1wQ?t=292

[freebeard]

Negatory.

The Hilux can't turn 360 degrees. It would be the 1974 Gold Superbeetle camper.


tinyhousetalk.com/1974-vw-beetle-towing-custom-5th-wheel-camper/

[ps2fixer]

I was talking about the grossly overloaded vehicle concept lol.