Pure copper has much higher thermal conductivity than pure aluminum, 398 vs
247 watts/meter-degree Kelvin.  Near double.  Aluminum is usually  alloyed
for use and for the alloys it drops substantially lower.  Aluminum's cheaper
I'm guessing.  Silver gets you a little higher than copper - 428 w/mK.

You don't have to break the A/C to pull the radiator.  The condensor just
lowers out with it and flops on the ground still connected, if I remember
correctly.
-Hans

----- Original Message -----
From: "Doug in CA" <vanagon@ASTOUND.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 4:13 PM
Subject: [VANAGON] Radiator removal with AC

Hi Volks,
Hey anybody know if I will have to pull the AC apart to change the radiator
in the 89 Blue star?  (us version)

Also when did VW switch from the copper radiators to the more efficient
aluminum radiators.
I noticed the replacement radiators now available are the new plastic
aluminum design and are more efficient at cooling than copper.  Right?

I am considering replacing the one in the 89 because I understand they get
clogged from non distilled water and this thing was running on the hot side
before the head gaskets went.  After changing out the gaskets with a new
engine rebuild I will run the cooler thermostat and new wp and new radiator
for good measure.

The AC is ice cold R-12 and I don't like 134a so I want to keep the current
charge in it. Can I do the radiator with out having to break loose the ac?

Thanks,

Doug