Hi Bob,

Well, it is a new pressure cap, direct from VW.   I had to replace the
old one when I accidently (foolishly) applied too much pressure on the
nipple while trying to unscrew it.  I'll see if I can get a coolant
pressure tester this weekend - after I resolve the leaky pipe to hose
connection.

Thanks,

Barry

ROBERT DONALDS wrote:

>Barry
>with a coolant pressure tester connected to the cold engine start the engine
>if it gets to 14 pds in the first few minutes then the inner  head gaskets
>are leaking combustion pressure into the cooling system and why would you
>run an old pressure cap if you suspect the cooling system is over
>pressurizing itself  BUY NEW
>Bob
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "Barry Muller" <ekab_muller@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
>To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 9:24 PM
>Subject: Of blown coolant hoses and old radiators
>
>
>
>
>>Hello folks,
>>
>>My 1991 has been popping coolant hoses off as of late.  First it was the
>>center top frm the thermostat housing, then the front connection right
>>at the point where the hose connects to the plastic pipe (roughly under
>>the front seats).  Replaced the hose clamps each time but the leak has
>>started at the hose pipe junction again (after only ca. 50 miles).  Now
>>this connection is the line that goes to the bottom of the radiator - if
>>that matters.
>>
>>
>>This is a new rebuilt engine with less than 4,000 miles  - all new hoses
>>in the engine bay, new water pump, new thermostat and a new cap on the
>>coolant reservoir (not the over flow tank) and  lots of other new things
>>that don't relate to the cooling system too.  The coolant looks OK, so I
>>don't think the coolant system is being charged with exhaust gases, so
>>I'm guessing maybe the 13 year old radiator is plugged?  Got a new
>>radiator which I hope to swap into the van this weekend.
>>
>>Q1) Is there any other problem taht could result in producing thes
>>aforementioned symptoms?
>>
>>Q2) Do I have to get plastic ($$$$) VW pipes to replace the old ones
>>under the van, or has someone figured out a replacement taht is cheaper
>>and better?
>>
>>Thanks in advance.
>>
>>I love this van, but I'm sure glad I got a 2003 EV MV to cart the family
>>around.
>>
>>bem
>>
>>
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