I am not sure I follow your problem here. If the t-stat is good, it
should heat up quickly. Is the gauge going just above the center LED and
then staying there? If so, all is normal.  If it keeps climbing, then
there is a problem. With the gauge in that position, what is the actual
temperature at the t-stat housing? Either of the two mechanics should
have been able to test that with an infrared heat sensor. The temp
gauges in the dash of any car are only there to let you know something
different is happening. The calibration is always suspected and they can
fail. You may be seeking a problem you do not have.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Dan Haydon
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2003 10:03 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Need advice please....

Hi there,

I've posted in the past regarding my 91 GL and how all of the sudden it
began to both heat up quicker than usual and maintain a higher operating
temperature (right above the led light) . So far I've taken it to 2
mechanics and the problem persists. I've replaced the t-stat, checked
the radiator for blockage, and flushed/bled the coolant system. The fan
is working fine too.

The last mechanic said he checked the coolant reservoir for escaped
gases and did not seem to think that this is the problem. I find that
hard to believe though, since I can't think of any other reason why "all
of the sudden" my van heats up quickly and maintains a higher temp. I'm
not leaking coolant and other than this the motor sounds good...

My questions are these: Is it plausible that all of the sudden my temp
gauge would start behaving differently to make it look as if I'm running
hotter? and, does anyone else out there with a newer van experience a
quick heat-up, then operate on the high end of the coolant temp sensor?
I've heard that maybe a new expansion cap fixes things of this
nature.....

I am at a loss for what to do and would hate to have to drive the
Vanimal off a cliff....please help!!!

Dan Haydon
Denver, CO