Hi Ya Woody:

(How 'ja get the name, anyways?)

Regarding mystery coolant - I wouldn't use it, and I would flush my system
as quickly as possible, for the following reasons:

1.    Your mechanic is not a VW expert (obviously)
2.    When coolant is phosphate-free, it is a FEATURE that is advertized on
the packaging label;
3.    The risk of expensive damage is extremely high;
4.    You will sleep better at night without this nagging worry;
5.    Local water may be or may not be mineral-rich (hard). Distilled water
is available at Supermarkets, and is cheap!

Marshall Ruskin
84 Westy, Auto/Air

Dear List,

What is our opinion of Gulf "Universal Formula" coolant. That is what my
mechanic has put in my 83.5 1.9, along with 50% water from a hose. He
claims that the Gulf product is safe and non-corrosive (though it does NOT
say "no phosphates" on the label) and that using distilled water is not
worth the trouble or money. Having read recent posts on this topic, and
having just had the engine rebuilt (corrosion on heads machined out about
85%) I am worried that I will be looking at a repeat of the same leaking
problem sooner than necessary, if I don't spend the monto use the best
coolant and the cleanest ater now. Your thoughts?

Thanks,

Woody