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Sun Nov 16, 2025 3:26 pm

Thanks to everyone who chimed in here! Great point about the Gates Barricade fuel line...and letting me know that I do NOT the stock oil drain plug on there.

I've got some work cut out for me, but it feels good to have a running, driving, rust-free Bug to start with. I'll have to look more at the thermostat/flaps, but may ultimately leave it as-is if it's stuck open. I know this is a controversial topic, but here in the inland part of San Diego, it hardly ever gets below 50 degrees, and this is going to be a fair weather driver only. Definitely going to give the heat riser a check and ream it out if needed...20-30 minutes to fully warm up is unacceptable.

Hope everyone has a great week. I'm glad to be part of this community.

Sun Nov 16, 2025 5:14 pm

There is another misconception. The thermostat is beneficial all year around! Especially for warm up and you admit to a problem there, but it also regulates the engine temperature at part loads too. A big difference in drivability in city traffic.

Here is a good read! Sit down with a good cup of coffee/tea and educate yourself! Well worth the time spent.
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=705328&highlight=how+works+the+thermostat

Sun Nov 16, 2025 9:42 pm

Thank you! I do want to full understand the theory of the thermostat system.

Mon Nov 17, 2025 8:54 am

Yeah, the thermostat and flaps used in ACVW engines provide basically the same function and effect as the thermostats used in water-cooled engines -- i.e. trying to keep the engine in a good/optimal operating temperature range.

Running an engine too hot is obviously problematic. But running the engine too cool can cause issues as well -- things like poor fuel mileage, more wear on engine internals, low end stumbling and misfiring, etc.

Just think of it like running one of your water-cooled vehicles w/out the thermostat installed. Will the engine run? Sure -- but obviously not as well/efficiently as with the thermostat installed. ACVW engines are no different in that respect...