Vanagon Heater Mods

How to improve the Vanagon Heater, and reassemble the control cables. EXIT

Heater Control Cables

This applies to heater for 1983-1991. Earlier heater system is different and cables are not compatible. Slider levers are as referenced in the User's Manual. Heater cable lengths are measured from tip to tip of the actuating cable.

Lever A (top):
Defrost, part #252-711-647. Both ends are zigzag. 645mm. Mounts right, connects into center high hole.
Lever B:
Coolant Valve, part #251-265-473A. Top end is zigzag, bottom perpendicular. 925mm. Mounts left, connects at low tab
Lever C:
Footwell, part #251-711-647D. Both ends are zigzag. 955mm. Mounts left, connects in hole closest to hinge.
Lever D (bottom):
Fresh Air, part #255-259-271. Both ends are zigzag. 1105mm. Mounts left in tandem, connects in hole closest to hinge.
Hint: Use a 7mm wrench (9/32) on the cable holders.

I removed all that PVC ducting on the floor and there is a lot more room.

But the heater blew hot air directly on my feet and I don't like that. So I inserted a dryer tube in the outlet, the duct is square and a real challenge to insert the tube and make it stay.

What a great idea this is!

I love it, the hot air can be directed to any cold body part, even under clothes. The vinyl tube is very flexible when hot. Wet spots on the floor are dried in short order and mold is facing extinction.

The vinyl spiral tube get at a hardware store in the bathroom exhaust vent department.

Take my word for it, this is a great mod!

I wrapped hose insulation along the source hose of my heater, except for a short section above the tank. Results are significant! Heater is finally working like it should.

Seems the long travel to the front was sapping the heat, especially in very cold weather.