Date:         Tue, 7 Sep 1999 22:21:58 -0700
Reply-To:     Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Subject:      Coolant change question
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I'm in the middle of changing the coolant on my Westy. I got sidetracked
by noticing a screw imbedded in my left rear tire - so had to take time
off to have than handled.  This has given me a break to ask the wisdom
of the list.


I've got two questions:

Has anyone installed the Fast German Auto Z-sticks? I got some, but upon
examination and test fitting, I notice that the threads on the Z-sticks
are different from the allen drain-plugs in the head. (My first clue
something was ary was when no metric socket fit the bolthead on the
Z-stick. As you can guess, this made what I thought was going to be a
simple install a big disappointment.

Is disconnecting the hose from the thermostat to the radiator, and
inserting a hose in this end and flushing the system (both with the head
plugs in and out) sufficient to flush the cooling system? I ran enough
water through until it ran clear. (PO had mysterious green anti-freeze,
and the mechanic who did my head gasket repair reused the old coolant
*EEK*)  I know that some people disconnect the hoses at the radiator as
well. Is that really necessary?

Thanks for the help

Todd
'88 Westy