I believe (correct me if I'm wrong) that the self-bleeding system was
introduced with the '86 model changes.  The 83-85 don't have this system and
need to be burped every time something is done at their cooling system.  I
do it anyway on my 90, just to be sure.  It's no big deal after you've done
it a couple of times.  You just need two people for the job.  Luckily I live
on a steep hill, so it's really easy for me....

Cheers,
Peter
90 Syncro Westy
SF, CA

-----Original Message-----
From: Steve Elfelt [mailto:steveelf@SPRYNET.COM]
Sent: Thursday, December 02, 1999 8:38 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: no idle

If the following quote is accurate, why the big fuss over bleeding the
cooling system and danger to cylinder heads if you do not?

Thanks for replies
Steve E

quoting now from an earlier message:

John Doe, this is not a big deal when you lose only a small amount of
coolant.
First, you need to top up the coolant reservoir (LHS) - not to be confused
with
the expansion tan (CENTER behind license plate). You disconnect the hose
from
the cap, remove the cap, fill with antifreeze mixture to the very top,
replace
the cap, refasten the hose to the cap.
Next you need to fill the expansion tank up to the MAX level. Now when you
drive, the coolant light should be OFF. If it comes ON again, let the engine
cool down overnight and repeat the entire process in the morning
In any case, keep an eye on the expansion tank level and keep topping up to
the
MAX level.  Eventually, the system will purge itself of any air.

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