In addition to what Ken says, you can extend the hoses to/from the radiator
(cut them and insert an extension of metal pipe, non-corrosive of course),
allowing them to fit further back on the plastic pipes, and double-clamp.
It's a temporary fix, but holds for a long time.
bmc  :)
"Faith will move mountains, but you'd better bring a shovel...."

> From: KENWILFY@AOL.COM
> Reply-To: KENWILFY@AOL.COM
> Date: Fri, 8 Feb 2002 09:06:57 EST
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: '91Westy Coolant loss
>
> I have seen several vans with loose clamps on the plastic lines that go to
> the radiator.  Some times the clamps themselves are rusted to the point that
> they are tight if you try to turn the screw, but are no longer clamping.  If
> this is the problem then it should be just a matter of some new clamps.
>
> The other thing that seems to happen is that the plastic pipes themselves
> deteriorate with time.  They are moulded around a piece of metal on the ends
> to give them beef when you are tightening the clamps.  Many times the plastic
> gives way on the end allowing the metal piece to work its way loose of the
> plastic pipe.  You can shove the metal piece back and reclamp but at this
> point you might want to start saving up for new plastic lines.
>
> Or (not to leave out the obvious) you could have a leaky radiator (it
> happens).
>
> Thanks,
> Ken Wilford
> John 3:16
> www.vanagain.com
> Phone: (856)-765-1583
> Fax: (856)-327-2242
>