Neil, I understand that the most common failure of the pipes is migration of the steel collar that is supposed to prevent the ends from deforming.  But I'd say if they show cracks, they are due for failure.  mcneely

---- Neil N <musomuso@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> Hi all.
>
> For a 1988 2.1 WBX. The pipes don't leak at this point, but if there's
> hairline cracks anywhere on them, is it best to replace them now?
> (would install stainless pipes)
>
> I'd planned to do an engine swap on this 1988 Westfalia but will run the WBX 2.1
> for now and do some preemptive and maintenance work to cooling system
> (and other stuff. CV's etc.) before any trips. Figured I'd replace the
> long coolant pipes, especially if I opt to do a fuel tank reseal now.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Neil.
>
>
>
> --
> Neil n
>
> Blog: tubaneil.blogspot.ca
>
> '88 Westy http://tinyurl.com/c8rlw6p
>
> '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"  http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/
>
> Vanagon VAG *Gas* inline-VR Engine Swap Group:
>
> http://tinyurl.com/d7gd5ej

--
David McNeely