Date:         Wed, 13 Jun 2007 17:59:39 -0400
Reply-To:     Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Subject:      Re: Catastrophic failure of coolant level sensor
Comments: To: Steven Smith <kewsps@YAHOO.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <349697.54407.qm@web38205.mail.mud.yahoo.com>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

When I put these coolant level sensors in I use Vaseline to lubricate
both the threads and the O-Ring.  They go in easily that way and seat
well, too.

Mike



Steven Smith wrote:
> Hello all,
>
>   Put a new, supposedly German, coolant level sensor in my 84 Westy  about 2k miles ago, only to have it crack in half and leave me stranded during what would have otherwise been a delightful trip to the mountains yesterday.
>
>   Yes perhaps I overtightened it, but not enough to cause the top to separate from the threads at some random time in the future, letting the coolant out in one big whoosh! Large pool of water on the ground, steam coming from every crack and vent.
>
>   Fortunately, all is well (long explanation), although my confidence is shaken.
>
>   Went to the dealership today to compare their part with the one that broke and the one that I purchased to get me home and found that the dealer part is made of a shinier denser looking material, and comes with the right size O-ring.
>
>   I suspect I may have overtightened the aftermarket sensor when upon warm-up it immediately started to leak, which then led me to realize the O-ring that came with it was much smaller than the one on the original part, at which time I just switched O-rings and forgot about it. Beware!
>
>   Anyway, this part is only $23 at the dealer, as compared to the faulty one at $13. Stay away from it. Buy an extra from the dealer, and keep it in the van. If you are currently using one of these aftermarket things, change it. Don't spoil your day!
>
>   Steven
>
>
>
>
>
> ---------------------------------
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>