Listees,

For an alternative to the usual method, see speedbleeder.com.  I've installed
five on my 84 Westy. One serves the clutch slave cylinder. I did learn that there
is a difference, on my vehicle, between the front and the rear wheel bleeder
sizes, so make sure that you order the correct size.  The dealer's information on
sizes should be confirmed.

 The device is among the better refinements I've made to my 200,000 mile,
original engine, Vanagon--- for about $40, about the same price for a brake
bleeder system.  Bleeding is a one-person snap, and I've been more inclined to
replace fluids on a periodic basis than I was with the OEM arrangement.

Usual disclaimers apply.  I'm a satisfied user.

Tom Hanlon
Palm Springs, CA
84 Westfalia

Rico Sapolich wrote:

> In a message dated 12/11/00 7:06:13 PM, happycampers@PICUSNET.COM writes:
>
> << I bought a vacuum pump . . .  all I got were bubbles, bubbles, and more
> bubbles . . .
> What did I do wrong?
>  >>
>
> I do not think you did anything wrong.  The bubbling you see is just the
> nature of the beast.  As I mentioned in an earlier posting, applying a vacuum
> to the bleeder draws air from around its thread which presents itself as
> bubbles.  This also reduces the effect of the vacuum on the line which you
> are trying to bleed.  The only efficient and certain way to vacuum bleed a
> brake line, that I can see, is to install O-ringed bleeder screws.
>
> Rich