Bob Donald's procedure:
BLEEDING THE COOLING SYSTEM
     I've heard more ways to bleed the cooling system than you can imagine.
Some may even work.  Here's what I do. Its simple and it works.  This is
done only then the engine is cold.  Coolant, when heated up to running
temps, will give you a good burn.  I lift the nose of the van about 4 inchs.
Fill the cooling system with coolant. Let stand ten or fifteen minutes with
heater valves open. Top off again, and let stand for another five minutes.
For the best results, remember to pre-mix fresh coolant with equal amounts
water. Next, start the van with at least a full jug of pre mixed coolant at
your side. Rev the engine to 1,500 rpm and expect to pour coolant in  the
expansion tank. Don't let it get low.  When the coolant is coming out of the
radiator in a steady stream, plug the bleeder in and tighten it. Top of the
coolant, tighten the cap, let off the gas, and you're done. This has worked
for me repeatedly.

Water capacity: 18.5 qt

How you premix is probably dependent on where you live, how cold, or not, it
gets.

50/50 will give you good antifreezeing and engine cooling.

Bob

----- Original Message -----
From: "Chris Almida" <chris@FLATBLACK.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, January 17, 2004 8:54 AM
Subject: COOLANT PROCEDURE AND AMOUNTS

> Hi most esteemed and learned list!  I have had to replace the radiator on
> my
> 84 Vanagon Westy. New radiator is in but where to go from here.  I have
> done
> a flush fill and bleed before but am unsure as to how much coolant I will
> now need (as I assume the system is way more empty than I ever got it
> before) and how much water to use.  Can anyone offer any advice and or
> step
> by step?
>
> Thanks in advance!
>
> Chris almida
>