Date:         Mon, 26 Aug 2002 08:23:23 -0700
Reply-To:     Doktor Tim <doktortim@ROCKISLAND.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Doktor Tim <doktortim@ROCKISLAND.COM>
Subject:      Re: Which Radiator should I buy?
Comments: To: Ryan Heidcamp <RHeidcamp01@COMM-WORKS.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <DDEB23A459C0EB4688B930627C7087D611FE00@johnnywalker.comm-w
              orks.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

>   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?


This is the problem with the Wasserboxers. As soon at the first leak
develops, you must accept that the whole system is contaminated. There are
dozens of connections in the system. Stop the weakest point that starts to
leak and re-establish full pressure, and the next weakest begins leaking
soon. If you service the system adequately, you never let corrosion get
started. If, however, you service the system every 3 years and only pinch
off the hoses and drain half the system like so many dealers and shops do,
you will likely get through the warranty term, but very soon after you will
be spot fixing leaks continuously.

I've seen this happen many times. Fix a leak. Hot run test and establish
pressure. Inspect for leaks. None found. Take off with the kids and stereo
blasting for a 100 mile drive. Burn up the motor before you hear it coming
apart or see the steam trail in the rear view mirror. Put in a new motor.
Repeat the process within a year or two.

The only way to stop the vicious circle is, service the full system YEARLY,
and keep corrosion from ever getting started, or, upon the first leak,
inspect the whole system and replace everything showing the beginning of
corrosive evidence. If you cannot accept that, don't buy a Wasserboxer.