Overheating problems [1.8L 8v]

[murari@cfar.umd.edu]

Immense thanks to Shawn and rdowling (sorry, but your name
doesn't appear in the email header). Shawn, your diagnosis
of a partially stuck thermostat sounds very logical to me.
I'm going to get a chemical flush done and the thermostat changed
this weekend. Topping off the coolant level didn't help - 
temps were back at around the 240F mark today before I slowed
down to 55-60mph and kept the temps below 230F.

Some questions :

1. I don't think I could do a chemical flush in the parking
   lot of my apt. building :). Now, what exactly is done in a 
   chemical flush ? IS it just the radiator that's flushed out
   or the engine coolant passages too ?

   I don't trust my mechanic enough to do this correctly. I
   had the radiator flushed and coolant replaced in  April.
   I suspect he simply drained the coolant and poured the new one in.
   Btw, the coolant smells burnt now - I checked.

2. Would it be alright to drive the car at these temps (keeping
   it below 230F if possible) until Saturday ? Do I run the
   risk of a radiator hose burst ?

3. I need a recommendation for a good VW garage/mechanic in the DC
   area. Someone who's near a metro station or would complete small
   jobs while I wait (with an appointment of course) would be ideal
   since I can't get a ride easily. I'm in MD, close to DC, but
   would drive anywhere in the area to get to a good mechanic.

Thanks very much !!
Murari.

85 VW Scirocco, 87k miles.
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