I'm not sure I understand this completely, but more than one person on the list suggested a while back that plugging the hoses interferes with proper coolant distribution.  Seems to me that plugging them would be no different than closing the valve on the heater.  But, I removed the hoses completely, including the T-junctions at the long heater hoses that go forward under the van.  I just ran those hoses straight.    One less thing to break.  I opted to keep the heater in case some future buyer wants it.  BTW, I also used a piece of 3/8" plywood to form a floor under the spot where the heater sat, to protect the wiring there from damage by stored items.  mcneely

---- Gary Freshley <gfreshley@YAHOO.COM> wrote:
> When I found a small puddle of coolant in front of the left tire, I thought head
> gasket, no way. It ended up being the rear heater control leaking enough that in
> ran across the body to the low side of my '84 Westy.   Upon inspection, it's
> been leaking for quite awhile. Therefore I've removed the rear heater and
> plugged and capped the two heater hoses.
>
>
> So question is:  Is plugging those hoses in anyway a problem??  I remember
> reading that listers had done this, but I'm curious as to any side effects from
> do this? I can't see how the coolant circulation is any different than having
> the rear heater valve closed, but has anyone who's done this had any issues with
> their cooling system??
>
> PS. Any of you northern tier guys need a rear heater? pmail me. Nice having the
> extra storage under the bench seat.
>
> Gary
> '84 Wolfberg Westy "Lola"

--
David McNeely