Hi, 

 

So I have a very bad leak started recently in the cooling pipe that runs across the back of the engine. I can find the part (it's 1043 HZ engine) and although it's expensive I think I'll have to bite the bullet. 

 

So far although I lost a lot of coolant the engine doesn't appear to have overheated. 

 

Does anyone have advice for replacing this? E.g. How much stuff do I have to remove or can I do it on the driveway from underneath? 

 

Thanks. 

 

From dim and distant memory, it's an interference fit, so don't expect it to come out without a fight. I'd have the engine out if I was going to try it personally. I'm not saying you can't do it with the engine in situ and the inlet manifold off, but it's not going to be easy. 

Oh that's a pain. If anyone has any handy suggestions for making it easier to do on my own let me know! 

 

I naively thought it might be possible without removing the inlet manifold perhaps with a bit of crafty use of universal joint to get at the bolts and one of those flexible hose pliers but to be fair I haven't really looked at what the access is like from above. No chance of getting to it from below either then? 

Also are you sure about interference fit / can you elaborate? 

 

It looks to me like it's attached to the block the other side of the water pump

by two nuts.

think some had a nut or two...later plastic ones are push fit

 

i think you will do it with the inlet mani off

OK thanks I'll have a go. Looks like mine is metal pipe but we'll see. Might need to make up a gasket for the pipe as can't find that part anywhere but not the end of the world. Just hope the manifold comes off easy and I don't break anything in the process! 

 

you can see the nuts in the pic....part number suggests its an o ring thats available if you search that number /although the picture looks like a gasket?

https://www.volkswagen-classic-parts.com/catalog/en_uk/part/030121043B

 

100x4mm ??  sounds too big 

Edited 3 February, 20224 yr by steveo3002

Ah I think it's 16 on that diagram, just found it part no 052121091A. The o ring I guess is for the water pump on the other side. 

yes makes sense

If you can’t get the gasket use some thick gasket paper to make your own.

Not sure RTV sealant would do the trick, which is another option, due to the cooling system pressures.

 

ebay has plenty of selections of gasket material.

 

that o ring is definitely for the water pump.

 

 

Edited 3 February, 20224 yr by mk2tastic

https://www.heritagepartscentre.com/eu/052121091a-gasket-coolant-flange.html

Well would you believe I actually got the bugger done without removing the manifold. Not recommended really as couldn't clean the mating surfaces properly. Fortunately no leaks. Definitely doable properly by removing the manifold though.