Karl, I had a similar problem recently when the exhaust pipe loosen up a bit
near the left rear cylinder.  I toasted a bit of the hose above it.  Had my
mechanic take off an inch or so and reconnect.  So far no problems.

John in Middle GA

----- Original Message -----
From: Karl F. Bloss <bloss@ENTER.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 1999 10:38 AM
Subject: coolant lines being burned by exhaust

> Peeking under our '87 2WD the other day, I noticed that the driver's side
> coolant pipe near the engine tin has some of its outer skin flaked off,
> presumably from long-term exposure to the exhaust right underneath.
>
> Is this a typical rupture point for a coolant line?  I.e. should I replace
it
> at my convenience, not when I'm some place far from home?
>
> -Karl
>
> Karl and Kristina Bloss, Trexlertown, PA
> '87 Westfalia Weekender  "Beverley" - 188K miles
> VW Mechanic list: http://www.enter.net/~bloss/vw/vwshops
> Busses by the Trail - Oct 15-17, 1999: http://www.enter.net/~bloss/vw/bbtt
> PA/NJ Vanagon owner's mailing list:
http://www.onelist.com/subscribe/pavanagon