Date:         Sun, 21 Apr 2013 20:53:01 -0500
Reply-To:     Jeff Palmer <jpalmer@MYMTS.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jeff Palmer <jpalmer@MYMTS.NET>
Subject:      Speaking of cooling issues ...
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

85 Westfalia GL, automatic.  2.1L Boston Bob replacement a couple of years back.  300k kilometres, less than 10 on the Boston Bob.  Motor is five, my oldest daughter is four :)

I'm pretty much on top of maintenance, but reactive rather than proactive when it comes to bigger items.  Now that I have two daughters 2 and 4 though it probably makes sense to start replacing things that haven't been replaced before.  

I did have a scare a couple of years ago when on a long highway trip the coolant light started flashing.  Temp gauge was ok.  No appearance of coolant loss in either tank.  So I carried on my merry way with no issues for the next 3000 km.  Iron Bridge Ontario if I recall - think there's a vanagon dude around there these days.

I assume it was a sender/sensor of some sort?

So it sounds like my original radiator is probably due for replacement.  I've been good about replacing coolant every couple of years and I've never had any issues.  I've replaced the coolant lines and water pump somewhat recently.

If I'm replacing the radiator, is there anything else I should replace at the same time?  Other hoses etc?

Maybe the thermostat?

I should also mention that the van used to run with the needle right on the blinking light, but now it's a bit low.  Also the fuel gauge never quite hits "F" anymore either.  I think that sounds like a voltage regulator issue if I recall?  I did order that part but haven't replaced it yet.  Did I mention two kids 2 and 4?

Thanks again
Jeff in Winnipeg