Date:         Mon, 26 Aug 2002 09:56:21 -0500
Reply-To:     Ryan Heidcamp <RHeidcamp01@COMM-WORKS.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ryan Heidcamp <RHeidcamp01@COMM-WORKS.COM>
Subject:      Which Radiator should I buy?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

1. Radiator (below 2 versions are interchangeable)
Radiator German-made 068 121 253E $239.95
Radiator orig. VW South African made 068 121 253E OR $179.95
2.  Upper radiator feed hose: (thru VIN # 24F060000) N 901 666 01 $29.95
2. Upper radiator feed hose: (VIN # 24F060001 Up) 251 121 082 $34.95
3. Lower radiator return hose: (thru VIN # 24F060000) 251 121 083G $59.95
3. Lower radiator return hose: (VIN # 24F060001 up) 251 121 083H $34.95
My radiator has gone the way of rust and mush, so its time to order a
replacement.  I have two questions.  Is the German made radiator worth the
extra money?  The second question is should I replace the front hoses as
well.  I have already replaced the metal pipes that run from front to back
and since the radiator will be new.  I like the idea of having all of the
cooling system in front of the motor replaced, but at the same time I don't
want to spend extra money.  They visually look fine and I didn't see any
signs of wear or bulges on them.  But every time I replace a part on the
cooling system and fill the thing full of Autobahn, it springs another leak
in a few weeks and I'm getting sick of that. What would you guys and gals
do?  I'm leaning towards buying the cheaper radiator and replacing the
hoses.
Any advice is appreciated.
Thanks,
Ryan
85 Vanagon "Tardis"