If you are in a position where it is necessary to replace the coolant pipes,
it may also be worth the time and money to convert to the later model hoses
and expansion tank.  It appears that '83-'85 has one style and '86+ uses
another.  From 1983 on, the diesel vans use the same coolant pipes as the
gasoline models, with hoses to match.  1984 and newer also use the
waterboxer expansion tank.  IMHO, the ultimate setup would be custom bent
seamless steel tubes that match the diameter of the '86+ plastic pipes and
the appropriate hoses and expansion tank.  A muffler shop may be the best
place to start searching.    Choose whatever way suits your situation, but
realize that the welded tubes on the early diesels are near the end of their
useful life due to the welded seam along their length.  The plastic pipes
are a legitimate option, but new ones are expensive to buy and ship.  I have
seen the rubber hose, but not in lengths that match the pipes you are trying
to replace.

Mike Snow

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM]On Behalf
Of Myron Lind
Sent: Sunday, December 23, 2001 20:25
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: replacing coolant pipes under the van

While we are on the topic of coolant and cooling, what are the
various ideas for replacing the coolant pipes that run under the
van. I have a 1982 diesel and would like to replace them as I put
a new motor in. I am leaning toward copper (didn't most radiators
used to be copper?) but know that it can work harden. I know that
Goodyear makes some sort of rubber for about $8.00 per foot. Any
reason to change the diameter from what's under there now? Any
other ideas?

TIA
Myron Lind
81 Westy
82 Diesel getting a new "mechanical TDI"