Thanks Mark - I broke down and took it to a mechanic to do some diagnostics (he's got the infrared thermometer) but this is great info. and hopefully between the two of us we'll figure it out!  Figuring which relay goes to what is a bit of challenge for the newbies like me!

Peace,
Marla
'87 Westy Van "Morrison"
----- Original Message -----
From: mark drillock
Sent: Monday, September 09, 2002 1:43 PM
To: Marla Stelk
Subject: Re: Need help - the dreaded flashing red coolant light
  
I assume you have the same type of problem, a persistent and recurring
flashing of the LED though the coolant level is fine and the temp gauge
reads normal temps.

On 87 models there is easy access to the "coolant level warning relay".
It is in relay socket #3 and has a large "43" stamped on it in white
numbers. Remove this relay and then see if the flashing continues. If it
does still flash constantly, and the temp gauge needle reading is
normal, the problem is very likely in the gauge or there is a bad
connection on the 14 pin connector to the instrument cluster.

If the flashing problem is gone with "43" out then the problem is in the
coolant level circuit. This can have several causes.
1. the coolant is truly low
2. the tank sensor is bad
3. the wiring connection to the sensor is bad
4. relay "43" is bad
5. major air bubbles occurring in the cooling system
   (once the relay detects low coolant or big air bubble it will  
    continue to flash the LED until you turn the key off)

Mark

Marla Stelk wrote:
>  
> Mark,
> How do you check this for an '87 Watercooled?
> Thanks!
> Marla
> '87 Westy Van "Morrison"
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