Thanks much to all for the replies.  Here's a snipped up summary response.
(Tom, I was hoping you'd bite on this one.  Your consistantly straight
understandable answers are most useful.  Not that the others weren't...
;-) )

>> 1)  How long does it normally take the thermostat to warm up and open ...
>...are you sure the flaps are there and working OK?
They are definitly there and move freely.

>...  I've seen situations where the flaps are screwed into their "full
flow" position.
Me too.  Almost did that to mine until I had the conscience attack.  Lotsa
locals here do.

>It sounds like you are missing tin. ...  If you can see the thermostat
while lying
> under the car, you're missing tin!

Then I definitly am.  I think I'll take the cable loose again until I can
scarf up a set.  Which brings me to...

>> 3)  If 2) is yes, anybody got a pair they could part with?
>It's easily available at junkyards.  If you can't get it locally it's
easily got.
Only local junkyard that has an a/c Vanagon I know of (an 81) is likely to
want me to buy the whole engine to get the tin.  Nice guys.  Any other
suggestions, like retail sources?

>> 4)  ... Should I clamp the wire above the hold-down screw or below it?
>>Does it matter?
>...my instict would be to
>clamp it in such a way as to give you the longest lever arm.
That's my dilemna.  The little plate the clamp screw pulls against doesn't
have a slot or groove to clue me about clamping the wire above or below the
screw.  Above gives me the better lever, but less travel.  Enough? I dunno.
Below is a tougher pull, but more travel.  Could anyone peek at theirs?

Carl
82 Vanagon L