On Fri, Jan 16, 2009 at 10:24 AM, Jeff Lincoln <magikvw@gmail.com> wrote:
> John,
> As for the temp guage it usually rides just under half way - however
> yesterday and today it didn't even make it to 1/4 on the gauge.
>

That sounds like a T-stat malfunction to me. If you do change it, be
very light on the torque you use to remove those bolts on the housing
cover, especially in the cold. The bolts screw into inserts in the
plastic bottom part of the housing. You really don't want to break
them loose!

If you can get 4 M6x18 mm Stainless steel bolts and spring washers use
those with some anti-sieze compound when you replace the cover.

This link does have some good tips when replacing the t-stat:
http://www.vanagonauts.com/19.11-Thermostat--2.1L-53.htm

Best of luck...
John