On Fri, Sep 07, 2007 at 01:58:37PM -0700, Walter Houle wrote:
> Hello All -
>
>
>
> This is my first ever post, so I hope I get it right.  I'm installing a
> new water pump this weekend and I have the following questions:
>
>
>
> 1.      Should I flush out & replace the existing coolant? It was done
> last at the shop about 2 1/2 years & 10,000 miles ago.
>
Yes.  When you refill, go to the local grocery store and purchase gallons
of distilled (NOT spring or drinking) water to mix with your new coolant
50/50.
>
>
> 2.      What brand of coolant should I buy? All I've ever heard is low
> phosphate, but I've never heard any specific brand names.
>
The part number you need is ZVW 237 105 from the dealer.
>
>
> 3.      Should I use gasket sealer on the water pump O-Ring? I saw
> Permatex Ultra Copper listed.
>
I've never used sealer on an o-ring.  Moisten the o-ring with your
coolant/water mixture before installation.
>
>
> 4.      I'm changing several of the hoses while I'm I there, except the
> long ones going to the bleeder valve. These are still original, but they
> look OK. Do I need to worry about these?
>
If you're going through the trouble of replacing your water pump, go ahead
and replace ALL of the hoses.  If the hose blows, the very least that will
happen is that you blow some of your expensive blue water all over the ground!
>
>
> Thank You,
>
> Walter
>
> 1985 Vanagon 1.9L