There is a big difference in them. Mainly the disc at the bottom. The
after market, does not fit as well. For some reason it is bigger. This
does have a effect on running temp. after warmup. If everything is running
fine, in your cooling sys., the difference is minor. Just another way
after market parts cut corners. I found this out the hard way.
My syncro, when aquired had several other problems in the cooling sys.
that lead me to do considerable research on this. After all is
said and done, my syncro is the coolest Vanagon on the road on the
hottest day of the year. I would not cut this corner, and risk the engine.

            Eric                   86-VW4x4
            vw4x4@fyi.net          72-240z
            Pittsburgh, PA USA     1936-Chrysler

On Fri, 21 Jan 2000, Martin wrote:

> Can anyone tell me the difference between a "non Vanagon" $28.00 thermostat
> and the other 1,000 for 3- 6 $ ??  Can a "normal one be used as long as it's
> the correct temp and size?
>
>   Has anyone experience with the GTI engine in the Vanagon?
>
> Thanks,
> Larry
> 87,85 Vanagon
> 72 Beetle
>