Repeat of newbie post: COOLANT LEAK 1994 Caravelle

[eeycee]

Hey we purchased a 1994 Caravelle, LOVE IT, fits the whole family AND the groceries to feed us all
However
we have a coolant leak - & have traced it up under the dash. From asking around people have indicated that this can be quite a common problem. Our task is to fix it!
When we show mechanics they kind of squirm & say... it'll be expensive, then run for their lives in the other direction -
or they tell us to bypass the heating unit (effectively rendering our beloved 'ladybug' unregisterable as the demisters wont work - WHAT A PAIN)
Any suggestions/ encouragement would be appreciated.
Also, what's the best repair manual to get - maybe we can do it ourselves.
Thanks
Jason & Elle

[jets]

Don't be discouraged. While I have not done it myself, by reading others experience on other forums it's not too bad a job.
I would rather work under a van dash than any car, certainly a lot more room. I don't agree that this is a common problem, but more likely as the vehicle gets older. A lot of mechanics only like to do the jobs they are familiar with on common vehicles which is understandable. I think they are OK to work on once you understand how it all goes together.
I am up to my ears in my own problems at present but will get back to you, hopefully in the next couple of days with some more info.

[jets]

Here's one description from VW Vortex Forum.
Replacing the Heater Core