Will this radiator fan temp switch fit my 1987 Vanagon Westfalia with a waterboxer engine?

Yes, this radiator fan temperature switch is designed to fit all 1983-1991 Vanagon models equipped with waterboxer engines, including the 1987 Westfalia Camper. It works with both 2WD and 4WD versions.

What’s the difference between the German Wahler OEM switch and the aftermarket option?

The German Wahler switch is OEM-quality, highly reliable, and comes recommended to avoid overheating issues. The aftermarket switch is budget-friendly and quality-tested but may not offer the same long-term durability. For peace of mind, many Vanagon owners prefer the genuine Wahler brand.

How does this fan switch improve my Vanagon’s cooling system?

This three-pin temperature switch activates your radiator fans in two stages: the first fan turns on at 85°C (185°F) and the second at 93°C (199°F). This staged cooling helps keep your engine at the right temperature, preventing overheating and ensuring optimal performance.

Is installation difficult? Will I need professional help?

Most Vanagon owners find installation straightforward. The switch is a direct replacement, and you typically don’t need special tools. If you’re comfortable with basic vehicle maintenance, you can install it yourself. Otherwise, a trusted mechanic can handle it quickly.

Why should I avoid low-quality radiator fan switches?

Using a low-quality switch can cause your radiator fans to activate inconsistently or not at all, leading to serious engine overheating and potential damage. Investing in a high-quality switch like the Wahler ensures reliable fan operation and protects your Vanagon’s engine health.

Radiator fan temp switch

Name: AM Radiator Fan Temp Switch [Vanagon]
SKU: 251-959-481K-AM
Price: 18.95 USD
Availability: InStock

Automotive brass temperature sensor with grey electrical connector on white background

Radiator Fan Temp Switch [Vanagon]

Product:	251-959-481K
Works With:	1983-1991
Manufacturer:	Quality Aftermarket
Availability:	Good Stock

$36.95

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Three-pin radiator fan control, aka "Thermo Switch."

Choose between the German Wahler brand or quality quality-tested, budget-friendly aftermarket brand.

Fits: Recommended for all 1983-91 Vanagon with waterboxer engine.

Temperature thresholds:
85C (185F) kicks in first-stage cooling fan
93C (199F) kicks in second stage cooling fan

Pro tip: Not all thermos-switches are created equal! This is not an item to skimp on. If it fails the results can be catastrophic. We highly recommend the genuine German Wahler switch. Buy the best, cry once!

5 stars: 31 (91%)
4 stars: 2 (6%)
3 stars: 1 (3%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

we exchanged the piece in Peru because original delivered did not fit our wesfalia.

we got the green one that fit our model

Fast delivery, exact fit. Quality product

Nice

I have not actually used the part. But I will say that I have never experienced worse shipping in my life. Every order is weeks late. I would say double the expected delivery time and then add a week for good measure. It's rather inexplicable. Every single time. Weeks. I can see why so many in the VW community bash GoWesty. I don't recall it being so bad 20 years ago or so ...

Awesome to get a quality part so easily. Thank you!

Good transaction and the the right selection of parts.

Will be installing shortly. It appears to up to quality standards for GoWesty. I have never returned any purchase from them.

As expected

Perfect fit. Good quality

This is the correct switch to use with an 87 deg. thermostat. Fan runs occasionally in low/no speed situations, temp needle stays over the LED.

Solved my issue of Radiator Cooling fan turning on immediately with ignition switch.

Exelent

Works great. My fan comes on at the correct temperature now

Easy Install... Solved my problem

I was heading up the 80 to Tahoe and pulled into downtown Truckee for a beer at Bar of America. The van was running hot up the mountain of course... I got out and the fan was on. No problem, that happens when the van is hot. I went in with my friend to have a beer which was all good. Came back to the van and the fan was still running on a higher level than I have ever heard before. Did some searches on the Samba and this appeared to be the culprit. Worked great and solved the running fan problem. By the way, just pull the fuse to turn it off. Fuse number 1 if I recall correctly. The picture is the van in the Truckee Library parking lot trying to diagnose it...

Alexis aceves

Bought it for a spare in a next road trip had ordered before and this things never go bad it’s just for precaution

The right part when you need it.

German OEM quality fan thermo switch.

Good

Cool thing

buy German

easy install!

Nice and easy!

Quality switch, perfect fit!

radiator fan switch

Easily installed and should work fine. I have yet to run van long enough to have fan come on.

It does the job

It works but put Teflon tape on the threads when you install! I had to drop the radiator again to fix that leak...

Fixed my radiator fan to come on at the low speed

I replaced this sensor about 2 years ago so im surprised it went bad again, but happy that my radiator fan is automatic again.

Perfect!

Works great!

Turns on the fan!

Went OEM for a little extra confidence and so far working great.

Peace of Mind

Nice upgrade for early WBX vans that still have the higher temp switch. Peace of mind having one more thing to help the inferior 1.9 cooling system keep up. Go with the German one!

Quick. Reliable.

See Title.

Keeps it blowing

when needed

Perfect fit.

It’s exactly what I needed

Fine product

Works great

Radiator Fan Switch

I replaced my radiator and knew i needed this new temp switch. Installation was easy and works like its supposed to.

Easy to install

Tried other after market switches and they didn’t work. This sensor works as it should.

Wahler brand.

Bought the Wahler. Works great. Not too much more to report.

Works as it Should!

The Mahle switch installed a couple years ago had low speed switch fail almost immediately, and the high speed switch finally failed about a year after install. I upgraded to this switch in hopes of longer life. Works as it should when installed!