Since this is my first toyota truck I don't have anything to compare it to. The heater is AMAZING; however, by the time I arrive at work it's just getting nice and hot. It takes about 8-10 miles of driving for the water temperature gauge to reach it's normal zone. It's only 40 degrees outside. . . should I look into something or is that the way it normally is?

It's only going to get colder outside! I need that little heater cranking out some hot air!

 

With similar temperatures, mine was starting to blow luke warm air in about 2 miles. And by 3 miles or so it was good.

 

Flush your cooling system

 

And use an OEM thermostat.

Mine takes way longer than any late 90's or newer vehicle to warm up, though, even with the rebuilt engine.

 

I would check the t-stat. My '85 (22RE) warms up within about 3/4 mile of city street driving. One time when it did not, it was due to one of those "fail safe" t-stats that lock open if the temps get too high. I run a stock 190F unit (same t-stat has been in the engine for the last 13 years and still works perfect):
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...tml#Thermostat