Dale,

I understand your problem. It's happened to me before I had the fuel tank/gauge fix. One time I had your EXACT problem. Other times it just wouldn't let me put in more than 1/2 capacity or so. Your issue likely lies with the filler tube or bladder. The Prius' tube is made specifically small in diameter to prevent excess gasses from escaping (as I understand it). This sometimes prevents air from coming out as the gasoline goes in. And, once you pull out, all that pressure shoots back at you like you're at a fireworks show.

Show it to your dealer. It isn't normal and can be fixed.

PS Did you get my email?

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