Thermostat replacement/coolant re-use

[dionski]

In replacing the thermostat on a 1.9, it looks like the only gasket is the square o ring that the seats the thermostat into the flange housing that bolts to the cooling hose intersection matrix. Seems like there would also be a gasket where flange meets flange. Looks like the previous owner used silicone to impersonate a gasket--don't know if that was because they didn't have the called for gasket when reassembling, or because there isn't supposed to be one but it was leaking anyway. Any body know for sure what's called for?

Also, why is Bentley so adamant about not reusing coolant when replacing radiator, heater core, etc? It's a real pain around here finding a place that will take old antifreeze and if what I have is essentially brand new I don't get why it suddenly becomes unusable once it's been drained.

Thanks in advance....

[Wildthings]

Don't have a clue as to why VW recommends not reusing the coolant. I have always just ignored that part. If I feel the coolant is ready to change I change it, if I believe it has more life left I reuse it.

These engines gave problems from new even if you followed every bit of VW's advice and/or industry best practise.

[insyncro]

By all means fluids can be reused.
Coolant if left in a clear container will separate.
Anything you dont want in your system will be floating or stuck on the bottom of the container.
Pump it out from the middle and properly dispose of the contaminated portions.

I run used, filtered transmission fluid, coolant and ATF in my vans and have for years.
Daryl and Boston Bob both shared the same with me in our conversations.
RIP my friends.

It also needs to be said as some are not experienced....if the fluid is black, smells burnt has other fluids mixed with it...I do not recommend reusing the fluids and fresh is best.
Smell is another good way to tell if the fluid has gone South.