removing rear heater

[erdonline]

I've seen a few posts about removing rear heater, but I've seen mentionof 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch hose. (I guess there are both sizes back there?) Which size coupling do I use if I want to by-pass it, and does it matter if I do it at the heater or closer to the engine?

How about plugging the line? I've found a post about using 1/2 inch copper with a cap on the end? What are some other options for plugging it?

Thanks,
Ed in CT

[floggingmolly]

I did it at the heater, just connected the two hoses when I removed the heater, and I've had no issues. When I have more time, I'll pull those lines out and down below to get the hose out of where I store things under the seat, so I don't accidentally nick the hose.

I can't recall if I used 5/8 or 1/2. I just cut a small section of the hose and took it to Pep Boys to find a fitting. I just used a black ABS fitting. I would use a brass fitting, they just didn't have one.
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'85 Wolfsburg Weekender

[Mofus]

The PO removed mine and used a section of a Mini-Mag Flashlight with hose calmps to connect the two hoses together. It's pretty funny actually, I wish I had a picture of it handy. Got an extra flashlight laying around?
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'87 Syncro passenger w/ 2.2L Subaru
'10 Passat Wagon (keeps Mrs. Mofus away from my van)

[Wildthings]

I used a loop of 1/2 id copper pipe with a ferrule soldered on each end of it. I flattened it in the middle so it would not pass water.

The hoses to the heater are 1/2 inch nominal with 5/8 molded ends.

If you want to eliminate the heater hoses underneath the van you need two 5/8 couplers.