You need to remove the hoses and check the pipe ends to make sure they
are not separating. The ends crack in such fashion that the barb and
steel insert will move out of the pipe. This leaves a depression under
the hose where it is clamped keeping it from sealing. At some point, the
insert will completely fall out dumping the coolant instantly. Of
course, if this happens when the engine is hot and under load will cause
engine damage such as internal head gasket leaks etc. Even if the engine
is shut down immediately, (it is too late once you know the coolant loss
occurred), the sudden loss will allow hot spots and uneven cooling that
the engine may never be the same. This pipe problem needs to be fixed.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of MICHAEL POPE
Sent: Monday, December 15, 2003 11:59 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Coolant Pipes

Hey now volks,
I have ben having a really hard time getting the main coolant pipes to
stop
leaking where they connect to main rad hoses behind spare tire carrier.
It
appears the hoses were replaced by PO, I never touched them, just
started
leaking. It seems as though I have one fixed but the connection to the
lower
hose will not quit dripping. I felt around on the connection and it does
not
feel like the pipe is cracked which I heard can happen. How often are
these
long plastic pipes supposed to be replaced. Are they dealer only? Local
dealer in Asheville NC said $109 for one $159 for other / spc order.
Seems
like if it is not cracked it shoud seal. Any suggestions? All help
appreciated.

Have a Grateful Day
Michael
89 Westy-Rosebud

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