On Fri, Aug 21, 2009 at 6:09 PM, Jeff Lincoln<magikvw@gmail.com> wrote:
> �OK, well this might get kind of long and there will most likely be several
> questions. I'll provide as much info as I can.
>
> *The driver's side head gasket is most definitely shot
> *The large plastic water distribution piece blew an end out
> *The coolant line/pipe that enters the passenger side head at the rear (rear
> of the van) appears to be leaking coolant
> *Oil shows no sign of water in the oil but was very low (it wasn't low last
> I checked last week)
> *No leaking from the block
> *The van starts right up runs and sounds normal
> *No leaking from the passenger side head
>
> The Plan:
>
> 1. Check compression
> 2. Remove heads have them checked - if warped replace with heads from parts
> bus.
> 2. Replace head gaskets
> 3. Replace gasket to the coolant line/pipe at the rear of pass head
> 4. Replace coolant distribution piece
> 5. Change oil

.....

Although I'm likely overkill on this concept, I'm a big fan of doing
what you can "while you're in there". i.e. if coolant pump is original
or just has high miles on it, is it possible it could be more easily
replaced while engine out? (caveat: I really don't know much, if
anything about the WBX. Just going on what I've scanned in list
email).

Remove what crud you can from fasteners (studs etc.) and soak well in
advance with penetrating fluid. Hopefully time is on your side.  :)

Neil.

-- 
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines