Why not use the belows type from an air cooled type 1 engine? I would think
they are still avail?
Are you saying the stock units are NLA?

You could try Automotion or the Porsche car parts suppliers. the 356,
911,912,914, and all the late 911s up to 1999 used an air acutator
thermostat.

Other than that try www.grainger.com or perhaps even www.westmarine.com

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jonathan Poole" <jfpoolio@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2006 4:55 PM
Subject: 12 volt linear actuator

Hello to the inexhaustibly intelligent list,

I am looking for a 12v linear actuator that is suitable for use as an air
cooled thermostat replacement unit.  I have a solid design planned out but
haven't been able to find a non-industrial strength and price linear
actuator (I don't need to lift the top, or the whole van for that matter).
Anyone know where I should be looking?  As you probably imagine I am looking
for something reasonably small and also somewhat temp/weather resistant as
it will be mounted in the engine compartment with my often very warm air
cooled vanagon motor.  I am located in western North Carolina.

Thanks,

Jonathan Poole
'82 ac westy