If it's in the center of the engine, it's almost certainly leaking around
the drain plug.  You should replace the washer under the plug every change.

Karl Wolz

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Nadeau" <dave.nadeau@HOME.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, March 13, 2000 7:08 AM
Subject: Newbie Question

> I'm brand new to the mail list, and I wanted to start by
> asking an easy question....hopefully.  I found a really nice
> '84 Westphalia with 106K, second owner, all original.  I
> love the vehicle, but have never owned one before.
>
> There seems to be an oil leak coming from the center of the
> case.  The owner hadn't cleaned this area before my
> inspection, and so the telltale oil and road dust are fairly
> pronounced.  The leak itself seems to be only moderate, i.e.
> case is dirty with oil, one to two drops on the bottom, but
> very little staining on the concrete where this would be
> parked.  Of course, an drip pan could really affect the last
> point.
>
> There also seems to be some leakage around both CV joints.
> There it's wet with oil but not dripping.
>
> My question is this:  I would expect a certain amount of oil
> leakage to be normal/acceptable for an engine with these
> miles, but is there something specific that I should have
> checked out or be aware of?
>
> Thanks for any suggestions!
>
> Dave Nadeau
>