In a message dated 10/4/98 12:15:07 AM, dhaslup@EROLS.COM writes:

>I have an '80 VanagonL and was wondering if there was any way that an air
>cooled engine would overheat like under a load or in extreme heat like
>in the
>desert?  If so is there a temperture light?

There are many ways an air-cooled can overheat. Extreme heat, low oil, extreme
altitude, and even very large loads. I used to drive a Super Beetle (not an
air-cooled Bus or Vanagon) so I can't speak authoritatively on tempature
lights or such. The main symptom of 'over-heating' will be the oil-pressure
light coming on. If you check your oil and still have the proper amount, then
the problem is likely that heat has caused the oil to act thinner to the point
where its pressure is less than adequate for lubrication and cooling...

>I'm guessing that any environmental temperature extreme would still be
>far
>under operating temperatures so the engine could still cool itself.  Under
>a
>load though it might be another matter.

High altitude can cause you just as much problem as high tempatures. With less
air around, you can't dissipate the generated heat quickly enough. This will
be a problem mainly in the western states. If you are chugging up a mountain
(say, Monarch Pass in Colorado) you may find it desirable to pull over and let
your air-cooled cool down for a bit before you get to the top.