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Subject:Re: Fuel expansion tank - bypassing? -- UPDATE
From:Zach White
Date:Mon, 30 Aug 2004 18:08:38 +0000

Hi Everyone,

Just an update, and a couple things I learned that weren't in the list
archives.

It's really easy to bypass the expansion tanks by running short pieces
of hose between the "in" and "out" side for the expansion tank. Filled
the tank full once (and drove around for a good 30 minutes, leaving it
at 3/4 tank before letting it sit) to test the seals. I then discovered
that the pressure builds up really good without the expansion tanks.
When I went to refuel, the pressure difference was so great that I
heard my gas tank expand when we finally got the cap off. After that, I
stopped about every quarter tank to vent.

When I went to the junkyard, I found a new H pipe for the cooling
system. Mine had broke some time ago and I just bypassed it, which
seemed to work just fine. With the new piece back in, instead of my
temp reading being straight up most the time, it's almost dead flat. I
replaced the thermostat with something from a Kragen last summer when I
replaced the water pump, looks like I need to put in one that's closer
to stock.

I saw lots of Vanagons on my trip, but the only friendly people that
waved were near Corvallis, OR. Still, it was a fun trip.

-Zach

On Aug 27, 2004, at 23:51, Zach White wrote:
> I dropped my fuel tank to replace the seals, since I had the "spills
> fuel
> when full" syndrome. In the process, I broke the fuel expansion tank.
> I got
> a new one from the junkyard, but I couldn't get any without breaking
> the
> round removable piece on the side, where the tube goes across to the
> other
> expansion tank.

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