I vote to keep the built in heater.

In 1996, I installed a Propex heater under the rear seat and left the built
in heater in place.  Never once have I regretted that decision.  Yes, as
time went by, I did have to replace the heater core but that was a normal
replaceable part for a great benefit of having the rear heater.  In the
winter, that built-in heater really helps heat the van.

I live in Virginia but have even used that heater in the summer when
traveling in the Rockies, Alaska, etc.

Harold

Harold Teer
1991 Westy -- VANGAUX
Harrisonburg, VA

On Sat, May 7, 2016 at 11:00 AM, Stuart <ve3smf@yahoo.com> wrote:

> I am finally getting-a-round-2-it to install my Propex heater in my 1986
> VW Vanagon Westphalia GL camper 2.1 L WBX auto.  I am leaning towards an
> installation under the back bench seat.  I am trying to understand the
> logic of removal of the built in rear heater, when some of the Propex
> installations are done.
> Living in Canada, I find that I currently regularly use the vehicle rear
> heater for keeping the vehicle warm when driving, or getting back from
> hikes in the spring and fall to warm up.  I have never experienced any
> signs or symptoms of leakage in the rear heater valves or temperature
> regulation device.  I understand for those who do not regularly use the
> rear heater, or have it turned off, it tends to eventually leak.
> So what are the pros and cons of leaving the rear heater connected, in an
> installation that has a Propex heater also installed under the rear bench
> seat?  I like the idea of some redundancy in having two heat sources.  I
> guess the main argument is the space that would be required for the Propex,
> and the decrease in storage space.  What other issues should I consider?
> Cheers!Stuart
>