Barry Armitage (Armitage@ASNT.ORG) said on the date of 6/16/98 4:38 PM

>What is the latest view on the proper coolant to use?  I've had my '89
>GL at two different places: one said to go with the phosphate-free
>stuff, and the other said it didn't make any difference--that the
>problem with head leaks was really a design flaw more than anything.
>Mine currently has 100K on the clock and not leaks.  One guy explained
>that by '89 the OEM had finally figured out how to seal the heads right,
>so many of the later Vanagons don't leak as much.  If the phosphate free
>stuff is still called for, is there a low-cost alternative to the buying
>it from the dealer?

     Barry, good to see another cowtowner on the list!

     Take as many precautions as you can with your coolant.  Go with the
Phosphate free stuff (I use Serria), if cost is no object, get the
Autobahn stuff from the dealer.
     While you are getting the coolant replaced (which you should do
every year) be sure to have your system pressure tested.

_________________________________________________________

Bob O'Shaughnessy,         Columbus, OH
vanagon@columbus.rr.com
85GL (awaiting Multivan interior)
74 Bus (Dad's)
72 Wife, 94 Rabbit, 95 Cat, 96 cat, 98 Kid