I would start by replacing the pressure cap. Bad thermostat should be obvious by the gauge reading. Is the system properly bleed after the hose replacements? Very likely you have combustion gasses getting into the coolant system. Either loose or cracked heads. Some diagnostics are needed to correct this. Also, make sure radiator fan is working if doing city driving or extended idling.

Dennis

----- Original Message -----
From: Jack Loranger
Date: Thursday, March 8, 2007 1:43 am
Subject: 84 Vanagon Bursting Coolant Hoses
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM

> Hi all,
> I have an 84 water-cooled gas engine Vanagon that has been blowing
> coolant hoses one after another.
> First it was the lower water pump hose, I replaced it and took a test
> drive and blew one of the transmission coolant hoses, replaced
> it, then
> went for a short drive and one of the large upper hoses blew. I am
> afraid to keep going this way. Could it be a stuck thermostat or
> something that I should be looking for?
> Thanks for your help.
> Jack
> Washougal, WA
>