I have done this to my 82 TD Westy and I would do it to every 82 I
needed to replace the radiator on.
You really need to get the parts from a 83 and newer Vanagon without
A/C. The conversion is not hard but the list of parts needed is a little
longer than mentioned previously. Here it is:

1. 83+ style lower radiator mounting plates and rubber washers
2. 83+ fan mounting bracket, with small motor hole to fit your 82
fan(models with A/C mostly have much bigger fan assembly, more work)
3. 83+ front radiator hoses, or maybe make yours fit, I wanted new ones
anyway.
4. connector with wiring for 3 pin radiator switch, cut off from 83+
donor, splice into old switch wiring
5. 83+ radiator
6. 83+ radiator fan switch
7. custom upper radiator mount brackets (home made, can't remove from
83+)

Mark

"Frederick M. Wasserstein" wrote:
>
> If anybody has the exact Modification I would like to know more about what
> is involved!!
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Michael Snow" <mwsnow@home.com>
> Subject: RE: 1982 Diesel Radiator
>
> > Now is the time to purchase a new '83-'91 style radiator, temp sensor, and
> > fan.  The 1982 diesel Vanagon radiator is unique and expensive.  The cost
> of
> > the conversion is almost certain to be less than the 1982 radiator alone.
> A
> > small and simple modification to the wiring harness is required for the
> > newer temperature sensor.
> >
> > Mike Snow
> >
>