While searching the archives, I find very little, if any, mention to one of
the most basic indicators of a failing waterpump, to my knowledge, which is
a small hole at the bottom of a waterpump and is fondly referred to as the
"weep hole".  This hole is designed, as I understand it, to weep when the
internal workings surfaces of a waterpump are beginning to fail.  When it
begins to weep you better be ready to cry if you don't replace your
waterpump very soon.  One of the weakest links in the waterboxer design is
the is the constant strain on the waterpump to push coolant uphill to the
front radiator.  One of the first things a Vanagon owner might learn is the
location of the "weep hole" on their particular waterpump and how to put
your finger on it for regular checking.  Otherwise, a large box of Kleenex
might come in handy for later use.  Kinda basic information, I guess, but
not too basic, I trust, if it helps prevent an additional catastrophic
overheating disaster further down the road.  My three cents worth.

David Gunning
Lovell, ME 04051

85 Wolfsburg Westy
Kubota  4WD
Limmer Boots