Date:         Mon, 12 Apr 2004 13:13:51 -0700
Reply-To:     Doug in CA <vanagon@ASTOUND.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Doug in CA <vanagon@ASTOUND.NET>
Subject:      Radiator removal with AC
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Hi Volks,
Hey anybody know if I will have to pull the AC apart to change the radiator in the 89 Blue star?  (us version)

Also when did VW switch from the copper radiators to the more efficient aluminum radiators.
I noticed the replacement radiators now available are the new plastic aluminum design and are more efficient at cooling than copper.  Right?

I am considering replacing the one in the 89 because I understand they get clogged from non distilled water and this thing was running on the hot side before the head gaskets went.  After changing out the gaskets with a new engine rebuild I will run the cooler thermostat and new wp and new radiator for good measure. 

The AC is ice cold R-12 and I don't like 134a so I want to keep the current charge in it. Can I do the radiator with out having to break loose the ac?

Thanks,

Doug