I've read and the manuals all seem to require that the coolant added to
a vanagon engine be phosphate free with the suggestion that it be
purchased from a VW dealer. I saw the coolant at my local dealer at
about $16.00 a gallon with more than two gallons required.  In talking
with a mechanic at the same dealership he said that any type of coolant
would be ok since they are now all formulated for non-ferrous metals.
What is the situation?  Would someone please recommend a coolant, called
antifreeze here in the land of the Packers and the frozen tundra, by
brand name, i.e. Peak, Prestone, Xerex  etc.  I would like to change my
anti-freeze this week.  Thanks for your help.