In a message dated 1/24/02 2:05:23 PM, dbeierl@attglobal.net writes:

<< any thoughts about using RG-174 to replace that
line? >>

Without considering the effects of the cable characteristics, one would be
hard pressed to come up with a durable termination for the 26 AWG conductor
of the RG-174 and the polyethylene would serve better, in this application,
as a jacket than a dielectric.  VW choose that particular wire for some good
reason.  Perhaps the bright green color is for instant identification and the
tough jacket (is it Teflon or nylon?) for uncompromising protection.  Anyway,
why use a pvc-jacketed coax when 16-18 AWG shielded wire with a Tefzel or
Teflon sheath is available?  Yeah, I know, Radio Shack sells microphone wire.

As for stretching the boot over the combed-back braid cum shrink tubing, it
is no problem as long as: 1/ The boot is not so old that it has those little
cracks on its edges; 2/ The shrink tubing is thin (Kynar, if you got it) and
not the rubber type; 3/ The boot is warm when pulled over the bundle.  If the
boot tears, a replacement can be made out of rubber shrink tube.

Rich