How does the cooling system on a Vanagon work?
All water-cooled Vanagons have an automatically controlled electric fan on the radiator. The way the system is supposed to work is like this: after the engine is started, the thermostat on the engine stays closed until the coolant temperature at the engine reaches 87°C (189°F).
What to do if your Vanagon won’t start?
A Vanagon Stalls and Won’t Start. I have had people email me with this problem about a million times so I finally decided to do a web page about the proper proceedure to get your van up and running again. GOT GAS? First of all, do you have gas in the tank?
Where is the radiator located on a Vanagon?
Vanagon cooling systems are a bit peculiar because the engine is in the back and the radiator is up front. The pipes that run between the two are BELOW both, so if air gets into the system it ends up in the highest point, which is the radiator.
When does a Vanagons fan come on at a higher speed?
In that case, if the temperature gets up to 95°C (203°F), the fan comes on at a higher speed (loud!). This all happens at a temperature gauge reading of about 7/8. This is also normal, but start paying close attention.
Why is the fan not working on my Vanagons?
If nothing operates the fan, it’s probably the fan motor or the ground path (brown wire) to the motor. Another quick check is to unplug the thermo-switch and check for power at the red/white wire. If power is present, jumper the red/white wire to the red/black wire and the fan should come on at low speed.
How to find the service manual for a Vanagon?
Pro tip: Use your browser’s “find” command (ex. Ctrl + F) to do a keyword search for subjects you’re looking for. This FAQ Guide is sectioned and enumerated to match the Bentley Service Manual for Vanagons. Lifting van with jack/hoist Towing: General towing info; hitches; trailers; roadside assistance
Why do I Keep my Vanagon resistors in stock?
If you can get the high speed but not the low then you may have a burned out resistor (86-92 Vanagon only) or a bad fuse or wiring (83.5-85 Vanagon). I keep the resistors in stock if you need one because I find that (because of age) many times they have failed the owner doesn’t even know.
How long does it take to replace a Vanagon coolant tank?
Replacing the tank on any 1986-91 Vanagon is very easy and quick. If the tank is replaced in this way, it will take about 20 minutes and no air will be introduced into the system: 1. Pinch both coolant hoses on the tank with hose pinch pliers.
Is the AC on in a VW Vanagon?
You might think that working AC is a “nice to have,” but let me assure you, it’s a need-to-have. The giant windows in the Vanagon mean it’s like a greenhouse when the sun is out. Over 70 degrees and you will roast without strong, working AC!