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Subject:Infamous Big Green Resistor! Help!
From:Steven Dodson - Epoch Product Design
Date:Mon, 20 Oct 2003 11:23:50 -0700

My problem is: Engine runs hot when idling and driving at slower speeds
(especially climbing hills) because the low speed fan is not turning on. I
had this problem early last year and resolved the issue by replacing the
cooling fan switch. I find it hard to believe that the switch is bad
already.
Answering to an earlier plea, someone told me it was a resistor problem.
Can anyone tell me where Bentley refers to this Big Green Resistor that
resides behind the drivers-side headlight?
I can't find a part number on mine and the VW dealer can't pin-point one
either.
The best guess the dealer has is part #251 971 284 E for $146.10 (but it
refers to a wire harness, not a resistor).
Is this right?
Is this resistor connected to the 2-speed cooling fan switch? I don't see
the resistor in the Bentley schematic.
There is reference however, to a relay in the schematic. Do these relays go
bad?
Anyone with experience in this issue?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

-Steven Dodson
Kneeland, CA
"Inga" the 87 Syncro

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