Charles Fonseca wrote:

> Hi..I've recently become the owner of a 86 Vanagon.

Congratulations!

>  When I start the
> car, the water gauge light will flash three times, then stays off.  Is
> this a normal operating cycle?

This is just a system check to tell you that this vital warning light is
working properly.

> Does a normally running Vanagon keep the
> temp indicator in the lightly colored area, about 1/4 way up?

From what I have read on the list, most people tell that the needle usually
keeps itself around the light, if it is only 1/4 up, I'd say the thermostat
is shot. After you have replaced the thermostat, be sure to bleed the
cooling system properly.

> Any
> tidbits of knowledge are greatly appreciated.  I'm still trying to figue
> out how to get into the archives

go to http://gerry.vanagon.com/archives/vanagon.html and click on "search
the archives" just under the white Eurovan on the left. Take your time to
refill your coffee cup, do some used car searches in another browser window
or some other thing that takes 5-10 minutes. Or, Marshall Ruskin can jump in
and tell you how to search by E-mail

PerL
87 Syncro 112i