Hi ...
getting the two-part pipes is the way to go.
That way the rear half can be worked on easily at any time.  The front
ends of the metal pipes seldom need work in my experience.

if you have full length pipes ..
I did change some on a 2WD diesel vanagon once.
The engine was out anyway.
I had to undo or remove the right  rear axle ..
and the gas tank was out  I'm pretty sure
and they sort of 'didn't fit' over a front cross member ..
they took some persuasion and jamming and cursing ..
but I didn't gut any holes in the van's body or frameworek.

Scott
www.turbovans.com

On 11/28/2012 2:49 PM, nirav patel wrote:
> I'm upgrading my steel coolant lines on an 1984 westy with the 1.5''
> diameter steel coolant line kit from Van Cafe. Was wondering if there was
> anyone on this list that has done this job.  It seems I will have to open
> up the hole on the cross member which did hold the 2 factory 1.25'' steel
> lines and the 2 heater hoses.  Before I start cutting away, I thought it
> would be wise to chat with someone that has done it.  I would appreciate
> any tips or learnings.
>
> +nirav
>