At 11:42 AM 8/22/02 -0400, SpaceKommander wrote:
>He mentioned that you MUST use VW coolant as the sensors were calibrated
>for it. He said even the Fuel Injection could be screwed up if I used
>something else for coolant. Coolant/water ratio was also imporant.
>Look, it's an extra $10.00 per gallon. How much do you use? An extra $10
>per year seems a good investment if it just might help solve some of my
>engine/cooling problems.
>He said the Vanagons in Germany did not have the head gasket problems we
>did. Is it cooling related? Cooldown after highway related? Whatever.
>Trying to save $10 by buying green prestone or whatever seems like nonsense.
************************************
I've been using Havoline Dex-Cool Phosphate-Free (the orange stuff) for
over 5 years now (flushed and replaced about 2 years ago when my GERMAN
water pump bearing gave up the ghost) without a single leak ANYWHERE.  It's
nice to be able to afford the extra $10 for the OE stuff (and you probably
should use it as well), but the Dex-Cool is every bit as good as VW's IMHO.
 I've never had a sensor problem, either with the needle reading or the
LED, at least related to Dex-Cool, it's always been with a low coolant
reading or too little coolant verses the water ratio (remember, pre-mix at
a 50-50 mix and you won't have problems with this).  You don't fill a
Wasserboxer the way you do yer Chevy, like pouring in straight coolant
first, then water.  My main factory VW mechanic set me straight by telling
me to pre-mix it in 1 gallon jugs before pouring it in.  Works for me
everytime.

As per usual, I think the rep is blowin' smoke, but he's prolly tryin' to
protect his backside as well.

But stay away from the GREEN Prestone, it's not worth the $$$ you'll spend
later on possible repairs.

JIm
84 Westy 2.1
"Ole Putt"
68 Beetle
"Xavier"
73 Ghia Coupe
"The Last Project"
jimt@oldvolkshome.com
jim96003@c-zone.net
***********
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