Yes the t-stat and air flaps are important, irrespective of your climate.
It allows quick and EVEN warm up of your engine and also directs the airflow
to the correct places.
You will not get the full  'life' of the engine if you do not fit these.
Regards
John.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Michael Edwards" <mpedwards@LYCOS.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, February 21, 2001 16:37
Subject: aircooled t-stat questions

> More questions....
> Ok, so i'm putting this engine back together and it seems that there are
random parts missing...unfortunately, my extra parts pile does not seem to
have anything that looks to fit.  Apparently, previous owner had removed
t/stat assembly, air flaps and all related linkage, etc...PO had engine
installed about 80K ago at local VW shop and they performed all work until I
bought it recently, so it had apparently run a long time without this setup.
My question is:  HOw important is it that I replace this setup?  I have
talked to other vw owners in AZ (mostly people with an affinity for bailing
wire and duct tape) and they say it is not really necessary as it is so damn
hot here anyway and the only problems imight have is trying to warm up in
cold climates.  Is this true?
> If I do need to replace these parts (I wnat to build it right, but with
"economy" in mind as I am running out of money) what all is involved--my
manual is a little sketchy....also, any ideas where to find them?
> Any help is greatly appreciated.
> Thanks
> Mike Edwards
> 82 Westfalia "The Bank Account with the Flase Bottom"
> Sorry, couldnt come up with a better name
>
>
> Get your small business started at Lycos Small Business at
http://www.lycos.com/business/mail.html
>