Thanks for the information.

The system was a little low on fluid, maybe half a quart or so.  I added a
50/50 mix.  I attributed the loss to changing out the sensor and the tiny
crossover hose at the top left of the engine.

I did notice that the radiator stays a little bit wet near the bleeder
screw; could this be the cause of the low coolant?

Is there any way to know without fail that the water is overheating?  It's
hard to get past that mental block of the gauge sitting high now...

The fan sensor is new, but I may test the fan again today to rule out the
resistor pack.  If not, can I assume that I have just gotten a bad sensor,
is there another possibility?  I do get antifreeze coming out when I replace
that sensor, and the van cools off when driving (gets warmer at stops) so I
assume that I am still getting coolant flow through the radiator.

Thanks a lot!

Blake Sartin
Moderator, Bus-Life List
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/bus-life
'69 Westy
'84 Vanagon
Maryville, TN

On 3/2/07, dhaynes@optonline.net <dhaynes@optonline.net> wrote:
>
> Your first symptom indicates the cooling system was probably low on fluid.
> the 84's turn on the warning light and raise the gauge when the level is
> low. This often occurs on a cold engine. Once the coolant starts to warm it
> will expand raising the level and satisfying and turning off the light.
>
> It is common for new gauge sensors to give slightly different readings.
> There are also a few versions that fall under the same part numbers. Even
> from the dealer, they seem to vary quite a bit.
>
> Tha fan not turning on can be a flow related problem. Combustion
> gasses getting into the cooling system will cause this. You need to find
> out why the coolant went low in the first place. If a working system needs
> to be bleed, you have a problem.
>
> Test the pressure cap to make sure it is working properly.
>
> Dennis
>