>This is the valve at the end of the cable
>connected to the temperature control lever in the dash.
>I thought it was above the spare tire so I took that down
>but still don't see it. Am I close????

That's where it is in my 84 Westy.  Wiggle under there, the dropped spare
tire carrier makes a great back/head rest, and look up and follow the
small diameter heater hoses and you should see the valve.

>can't shut off the heat

This is not a problem here in Maine just now, 14 degrees.  :-)

Best wishes,

Tony

Anthony L. Mourkas
Hampden, Maine, USA
1984   Vanagon Westfalia    "Gertrude"
1986.5 Quantum Syncro Wagon <--------- Name this car!
1991   Jetta Eco Diesel     "Liesel"