Date:         Sun, 24 Jun 2012 14:52:38 -0400
Reply-To:     Bill M <billmonk@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bill M <billmonk@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: First road trip, what parts should i upgrade??
Comments: To: marc rose <mrose1028@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <CAO5Ru2P-f=h__vwoykjvcMS6KyXsgLrd2EVWq5V=U62o3LaDNQ@mail.gmail.com>
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The hoses would be a good idea that way you have a baseline on them. Take the time and money to also
replace the plastic coolant distributer behind the bulk head in
the right front corner of the engine area. I would also consider the plastic thermostat housing as these are failure
prone parts especially of original. Examine your expansion
tank with the low level sender and if it's yellowed replace it. 
This will leave you with a sound coolant system you won't 
have to worry about while on the road. Just be sure to do it
with plenty of time so you can get some shake down time 
under your belt. Drive the Westy to work,the grocery store,
pick the kids up from Grandma,etc...that way you can make
sure you have no drips and the coolant systems is bled. You want to avoid major work without having time to road test
the work. 
I noticed GoWesty is now selling replacement plastic hose
for the fuel lines from the tank to engine compartment. I usually replace it with rubber fuel line but the plastic tubing 
they offer is more oem. 
http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=23642&category_id=253&category_parent_id=

Bill

On Jun 24, 2012, at 1:01 PM, marc rose <mrose1028@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> We are taking our first road trip in a a few weeks and was looking for some
> input on what might ruin my trip that i can fix before we leave.  All in
> all "Rosie" a 91 Carat auto, runs great for getting around town and for
> driving to work.  However, I would still ike to know what i should look at

> closely before hand.  I have recently replaced the tires, (RA08), new
> muffler, starter and headlight relay, new fuel lines and rails.  I was
> thinking of changing all the hoses, does anyone recommend a kit or vendor?

> Any advice on this would be great!!
> 
> Thanks
> 
> Marc