On Tue, 21 Dec 1999, Budd Premack wrote:

> There may be air leaks in addition to possible engine temperature issues.
>
> Aging of the flap seals in the main air plenum (which are controlled by 3 of
> the 4 dash air control levers) creates gaps which allows fresh (cold) air to
> sneak past.  Since it is a huge pain to remove the entire heater/plenum
> assembly and renew the flap seals, I have found it expedient to go for for
> an easier solution .
>
> You can cover the main air intake (behind the upper grill) with cardboard
> and duct tape.  This greatly reduces the amount of fresh (cold) air that
> gets into the heater plenum.  In effect, you have just upgraded to a
> recirculating interior air system.
>
> However, don't cover the small side air intakes as this will completely stop
> all fresh air from entering the van.  This will allow too much moisture
> (from breathing) to remain in the van, thus allowing condensation to form on
> the cold windows.  Remove your cardboard air intake cover when it warms up
> in the spring.
>
> Also check for air leaks from loose fresh air ducts under the dash.  These
> are the ducts that supply fresh air to the outer dash vents.  Tighten the
> ducts and secure the connections with duct tape (what else?).
>
> I did both of these easy fixes last winter and my van now stays warm as
> toast, even when temps are well below 0 F.
>
> Budd Premack
> 86 Syncro, 73 Super
> Minneapolis, MN (Land of Sky Blue Waters)
       Last summer I taped completely over the outer air intake, to
improve the AC. After that driving at 60 MPH, I could feel air pouring in
to  my van as if I missed the sides or something. Check over my work
several time. I'm convinced that there must be somewhere else that
Vanagon leak air.  Anyone have any ideas?
                                           Eric