The procedure for replacing the stock heater valve varies depending on
model as does the degree of difficulty.

The same is true for adding or operating the stop valve "Robert"
recommends and sells. Some models of Vanagons have additional dash
controls that preclude the easy removal of the heater cover, to put it
mildly.

In any case, adding a heater on/off valve that can't be safely operated
by the driver while the vehicle is in motion is Mikey Mouse in my
opinion.Putting it behind a panel that was not designed for frequent
removal is more so. The plastic tabs holding the cover in place are
prone to breaking, as are the plastic flanges of the heater box that the
the cover slides onto.

The frequency of need for changing the position of the proposed valve
will also vary, by regional climate and tolerance of the driver and
passengers for traveling with the valve in the wrong position for a
given trip. "Fixing" the heater control by adding a valve that many will
find to be a pain to access is just another degradation of the ownership
experience. After a few "fixes" like this, the Vanagon will become less
and less the vehicle of choice for family outings.

As for the "proper piping system" remark, a stop valve is often there to
allow the flow to be stopped while the control valve is serviced or
replaced. This is a needless feature on a vehicle heater system. Perhaps
that explains its absence on so many vehicles.

Mark

George Goff wrote:

>
>No, it's not a big deal to change the heater control valve as long as you
>don't mind jacking up the front of the van, removing the spare tire (and, to make
>life a little easier, the spare tire tray), pinching off the heater hoses
>then peckering around to remove the hose clamps and the cable clip while reaching
>up into a dark hole.  Once that is done, you get to do it all over again in
>reverse.  Oh, and God forbid if you have unwisely bought a heater valve from an
>aftermarket vendor for you might have the opportunity, as I did, to do it all
>over again.
>
>Why add a stop valve to the heater line?  It is far easier to do.  It is an
>absolute solution to the problem.  It is cheaper.  It will outlast your van.
>And, perhaps the most compelling reason is that it is sound design.  In any
>proper piping system I have seen, whenever a control valve is installed right
>beside it will be a stop valve.
>
>George
>
>
>