Bradley
My problem was the other way-I replaced my metal coolant pipes (rusted
through at the bends off the engine) with the plastic pipes from a 85.It was
a real tight fit  fitting the rad hoses to the pipes-lots of elbow grease +
vaseline.The part numbers of the hoses I used were N901 666 01 (straight)
and 251 121 083G (90 degree bend).

What is the part number of your rad hose (90 degree bend) that had the loose
fit?

You could try filling the gap with sealant if it's not to loose.

thanks
Gerry
----- Original Message -----
From: "Bradley Flubacher" <flub@ADELPHIA.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, July 06, 2002 10:14 AM
Subject: slightly incorrect coolant hose, will it be ok?

> I just ordered a pair of coolant hoses that directly feed my nice new
> radiator in my '84 vanagon.  The hose that has the bend in it seems to
> be slightly incorrect. The side that connects to the rear metal lines is
> too large in diameter. The hose slides freely onto the rear metal line.
>  I suspect this is because the hose I got is intended for use with later
> model vanagons that have the plastic lines that run the length of the
> van. They area probably slightly larger in diameter than the metal ones?
>
> Anyhow, I clamped it on well (maybe I'll double clamp).  Do you think
> this will suffice?
>
> Brad