With the discussions on thermostats, here is an
interesting bit from Ben Huot's webpages:
http://www.benplace.com/front_radiator.htm

> VW is now at the letter �F� (part # generation) for
> the standard 87deg thermostat, but I called VW Canada
> yesterday and they explained to me that the �F� thermostat
> was a bit higher than 87 deg and the older model were a
> bit lower than 87deg!!!!!!, they say that the van was
> running too cold with the subsequent model (A to E!!!!!).
.......................
> Also, VW confirmed that the new thermostat and the
> new temp gauge sensor (the one in front of the thermostat
> housing) give a higher reading (for the sensor, about 15%
> more) and higher temperature (for the thermostat, about
> 20% more heat). The gauge should normally (by VW spec)
> read � or a bit below that.
>
> I find it completely stupid that the gauge is not
> in the middle when at normal temperature, it is logical
> to have the same proportion each side of the needle for
> an accurate reading and safety (more time to stop the car
> in case of overheating). My little Honda gauge is always
> in the middle like it�s frozen there, I once had an
> overheating problem due to a lost of pressure and in
> went all the way near the red section giving me some
> time to stop the car.
>
> Note: the VW car (not van) I worked on had a 3/4 reading
> in the front at normal operating temperature. I just changed
> my thermostat and sensor and I had the 3/4 reading in the
> front, I didn�t like that at all and went back with the old
> one. I like to see my needle in the middle, period.

                        Richard A Jones
                        Boulder, Colorado