Sorry, but I can't see that one form of mechanical force is superior to
another, all other things being equal (like the durability argument that's
been proposed... yes, zip ties could disintegrate, but clips could rust. In
fact, neither is true).

I'm not arguing against the clips, David. In fact I have used them on three
out of the four heater boxes I have done. But are they better than zip
ties? No. You can't tell once the box is in the car. I'm just saying that
there is no reason to dissuade anyone from using any alternative method
that actually meets reasonably high standards, equal to or better than what
was used originally.

Last week, I chimed in in support of cork valve cover gaskets when someone
stated that their mechanic said that they "fail often." This is creating a
problem where none exists, and it's not fair to people trying to learn to
work on these old vehicles. No need to make that more expensive or
troublesome than it already is. The rubber gasket, I will agree, is
probably superior in the long run. But to tell someone they should run from
cork gaskets us just wrong. It's a choice.

Jim

On Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 9:20 AM, David Beierl <dbeierl@attglobal.net> wrote:

> At 09:27 AM 12/29/2011, James Felder wrote:
>
>> If there was serious concern about sticking to the original methodology,
>> we would all glue our cases back together.
>>
>
> Actually the original method of holding the case together is with the
> clips.  Then VW decided to reduce manufacturing costs by ultrasonic
> welding, so they added the tabs (but kept on using the clips).  When they
> got the welding equipment set up in the factory, they ditched the clips for
> assembly, but they're still the specified method for reassembly.  Gluing
> the case together would be a very bad thing to do.
>
> Incidentally Bentley says (when splitting the case) to split the welded
> tabs by hammering a knife blade between them.  It's much easier to simply
> saw them off flush with the edge of the case.
>
> I'm not saying that zip ties aren't usable in a pinch.  But I believe the
> clips are superior.  Two bucks apiece is a rip, but in this case I think
> it's worth it.
>
> Yours,
> David
>