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Date:         Sun, 23 Jan 2005 22:38:17 -0500
Reply-To:     Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Dennis Haynes <dhaynes@OPTONLINE.NET>
Subject:      Re: radiator leak
Comments: To: Jay Roth <bghuna@MCHSI.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <41F455FA.2030103@mchsi.com>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

With that mileage, that radiator owes you nothing. Even before the leak, coolant performance was probably questionable. This is a do it yourself job but it is a nuisance. You will need the raise the front of the van hogh enough to get the radiator out. There is no reason to disconnect or remove the AC condenser. While replacing the radiator, make all the cardboard air deflectors are in place. As for type of coolant, If you are using the blue stuff, stay with it. I myself have been using the Dex-cool equivalents. If you are using hard water, make sure your choice is silicate-phosphate free to avoid nasty deposits. Many coolant companies are now marketing "Universal" coolants. They claim they will mix with any type or brand. If you really want to go crazy, do the Diesel truck route. They now use an "Extended Life Coolant" (ELC) designed for 6 years, 600,000 miles need an additive replenishment at the half life. This stuff even helps eliminate cylinder liner erosion common in Diesels due to the compressive forces and vibration levels. These additives work the the "Water Wetter" Red Line sells.

Dennis

-----Original Message----- From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Jay Roth Sent: Sunday, January 23, 2005 8:57 PM To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM Subject: radiator leak

Oh trusted vanagon listees:

I humbly approach with request for advice. Please don't thrash a newbie for asking - but here's the scenario:

Today I was giving the '87 Westy the once over and lubing a few areas enderneath when I noticed a stain on the concrete in the front of the van. It was coolant leaking from the seam on the radiator (left - driver's - side) and trickling down the support. This is a relatively slow leak at this time, but my guess is that it's getting worse since the level in the refill tank has dropped a little (but not below the Min level line).

My questions: If one has only a few tools and little experience, is replacing the radiator "do-able" if I can find a replacement? Should I order new german radiator or no?

I've owned the van (with 334K miles) two years and haven't changed the coolant (which is currently VW Blue). Without beginning the "not coolant again" wars, what's the recommendation on coolant (and yes, I've checked the archives but opinions change). Feel free to pmail me with your opinion so as to not clog the list...

-- Love, Light, & Laughter Jay

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