Yes, that is the thermostat. On top of it is a knob which you will use when bleeding
the system after it is back together.
You can use Channel-Lock pliers on the hose clamps, but you will thank yourself if you
invest the $15 and get the special pliers for this purpose at your local auto parts.
They have rotating jaws and can be locked to hold the clamp open. The problem I have
with the Channel-Locks is the clamp often slips and moves to a different position
making it even harder to reach.
Good luck.
Jerry
----- Original Message -----
From: "Dan Barrett" <nullpointer@POBOX.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, June 29, 2003 10:35 AM
Subject: 2.1 engine pull: which coolant hoses?

> Volks,
> I'm finishing my first engine removal -- everything has more or less gone
> according to plan except for the cooling hoses.  My boxer, with AC and power
> steering, doesn't look like Bentley's crappy close-cropped photos.  In the
> second photo on 10.9, which are coolant hoses 2, 3, and 4?
> On my engine, there's a bunch of large-diameter coolant hoses running into a
> uh, thing, which looks to be connected to the block forward of the cylinder
> head on the driver's side (is that the thermostat?).  From there, one short,
> smaller-diameter hose goes into the block, and a large-diameter one drops
> down and under the engine back to what looks like the water pump.  Pics
> available on request, sorry for the bad description.
> Bonus question: what's the best way of getting those rusty band clamps off?
> They're not worm-drive hose clamps, they look like they're crimped together.
> Is there a special tool for these?
>
> Many thanks,
> d.
> 1990 GL -- "Mudskipper"