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Fri Nov 18, 2016 3:13 pm

I'm in the market for a new coolant reservoir and found one on Hans Auto Parts for more then half the price cheaper then van-cafe and bus depot. Has anyone used them for parts? Is this a good site to order from?

Fri Nov 18, 2016 3:19 pm

I used them once before. Purchased the brake light switches for my 82 Westy and for a voltage regulator. I was surprised by their prices too but a few online searches brought up some good reviews of their Company. The brake light switches have been working as they are intended to but I carry the voltage regulator as a spare so I cant comment on it.

Fri Nov 18, 2016 3:28 pm

Buyer beware. In the TDI world, Rothenbacher is the devil: http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=320500 (just one topic of many on the subject)

Fri Nov 18, 2016 4:01 pm

Fri Nov 18, 2016 6:52 pm

I would pause for internal engine parts, but a coolant reservoir? Either it holds fluid or it doesn't. I have acquired a wiper switch from them, as well as a heater fan. I have been to their location in Monroe NC and picked the parts up, he answers inquiries by email expeditiously and his phone as well. As with all things nowadays, Caveat Emptor.

Fri Nov 18, 2016 7:56 pm

Well, I bought one of those inidentified reproduction canisters about 4 years ago and it has leaked ever since. Not serious, just a seepage from the seam on one side that shows up as a dust collection spot. So yes it holds fluid, but I would have rather had a quality part, if such a thing exists anymore.

Sat Nov 19, 2016 9:59 am

I installed a Hans coolant sensor level switch, coolant reservoir and reservoir cap a little over a year ago when I did the ritual coolant flush/change in my Vanagon. Kept the old parts as a back-up.

So far no complaints.. the reservoir is holding up just fine..the sensor and cap work well too.

My thinking is most of these parts come from the same suppliers in China anyways..making them for Behr, Febi, or whoever..as no-one will start a production run for Vanagon parts without an order for 1000s of units. Hans just gets the over-runs or extras.

I installed a Hans radiator cooling fan in my Vanagon over five years ago..and it is working just fine too..saved about $350

Sat Nov 19, 2016 11:01 am

I suppose it depends on what type of part you are looking for. The voltage regulator in my parts stash is the Huco Brand and the brake light switches which I do have installed are ATE Brand. Prior to purchase I did a search on the part numbers and then looked at the reviews of the parts themselves. Both manufacturers got good reviews and Hans Auto Parts also had the best price . Lots of VW Vendors sell the same parts Hans Auto Parts does but in some cases Hans lists them at a better price than their competitors.