In a message dated 30/01/2004 12:12:55 AM Eastern Standard Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

<<<<Many of you know that I'm replacing the engine, clutch  assembly, and
tranny in Billy Bones, my 88 Westy. I don't want to spend a bundle  on those
components and then neglect all of the real problems of the wbx engins;  the
coolant situation.  So, I'm thinking of replacing every coolant hose  from bumper
to bumper.  However, I gotten seveal quotes that have indicated  that it will
cost me near $500 for all of the water lines.  That's a lot of  cash.  However,
ever problem I've ever had on a WBX has been coolant  related.  I know I
ought to replace all of those lines in the engine  compartment, but what about all
of those from say the tranny forward?  Help  me out here.  I'm quickly
spiraling toward broke on this project, but I do  want dependability>>>>

Warren, you certainly should  change out all the rubber hoses, verify and
repair or replace any of the metal  coolant lines and replace any of the plastic
coolant pieces ESPECIALLY the multi  nippled distributor and thermostat
housing. Water pump defintely. You've got a  pretty good investment in that engine
and it can be lost in an instant on the  freeway on a hot summer day and all
the coolant drops out due to one of those  old coolant parts crapping out.  See
my 1987 Vanagon Westy New Motor  Project,
_http://members.aol.com.Fkc43/newmotor.htm_ (http://members.aol.com.Fkc43/newmotor.htm) , webpage  for details on
everything I changed out on my new engine project.  Van had  380,000 km and
was 15 years old so how long do you think those rubber and  plastic pieces
should last ?

Cheers,

Frank Condelli
Almonte,  Ontario, Canada
BusFusion a VW Camper camping event, Almonte, ON, June 10 ~  13, 2004
'87 Westy & Lionel Trains
Member: Vanagon List, LiMBO, IWCCC  & CCVWC
Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa  Valley
STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel Mufflers
Frank Condelli &  Associates or http://frankcondelli.com