If the list generally concurs, it may be possible to run your system
unpressurized for the time being.

If the system is unpressurized, the blow-by gas from an internal head-gasket
leak should not cause your system to dump all your coolant.

I would appreciate it, if more knowledgable listees than myself could
comment on this, as well as mention any caveats that he need watch out for.

Marshall Ruskin
84 Westy "Iron Igloo"

>just bought an 83.5 Westy a few months ago and have had a hell of a time
>with cooling system. I believe that I have a small and possibly
intermittent
>blow by problem in a cylinder leading to air in the system.
>
>Q(s):
>
>1) any idea how fast these things progress into more serious leaks? I'm
>having to burp it every 700-1000 miles or so.
>2) my mechanic says that heads can't be tightened - doesn't work.
>reasonable?
>3) it is possible that I also have a sticky thermostat - seems like it
>doesn't want to settle on a gauge position on the hwy. is this a VW only
>part or are there other ok replacements?
>
>4) wierd and possibly related: This sounds like a Tom and Ray question, but
>they don't seem too interested in vanagonstys...
>
>engine misses a bit at idle and sometimes on acceleration. I replaced the
>rotor cap because one of the plug sockets was really corroded. after less
>that 1000 miles/2 mos the same socket position is corroded again. The wire
>doesn't seem to be cracked. Any ideas?
>
>Chris Fall
>cpfall@ucdavis.edu
>