I would never run a modern engine on non-detergent oil. Who is someone
kidding? I also doubt there is a problem with the rings seating,
although you may have cheap rings. I find the "three piece" oil control
rings often used do allow more oil to be consumed probably due to the
cylinders laying on their side. Another possibility is that the intakes
valves or guides are worn-oversized allowing oil to get sucked down the
guide. I'll also bet the slinger/washer that belongs on the intake valve
stem iis not installed as it does not come in any gasket kit. They are
still available through VW, The part number is 113-109-619. Make sure
you are not overfilling the engine. Keep the level between the marks. No
reason to keep it at the upper mark as this can increase consumption and
will raise oil temperatures. I've found that 4.5 quarts is all the oil
needed at changing time. BTW, I bought my van new, (87 Syncro Camper)
and it has always used some oil. It seems to use more during local use.
I remember my first long trip with it from Long Island to Rochester NY
using 1 quart each way. Engine just turned 190K yesterday. Now using ~1
quart every 1,000 to 1,500 miles, Using Mobil-1 15w-50.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of mike
Sent: Wednesday, August 21, 2002 12:15 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Engine rebuild break-in

Vanites,

My engine uses a qt of oil every 800 miles, acts like the rings never
seated.

I got a rebuilt 2.1 from a reputable rebuilder.  Ran it around town, no
full
throttle for 1000 miles then had the valves readjusted.  Ran it around
town
for another 100 miles then took it cross country, 8000 miles in 23 days.
Changed oil every 3000 miles, Castrol 20-50 and Mann filters.

Per the rebuilder's suggestion I ran straight 30 wt for the last 3000
miles,
still uses a quart every 800 miles.  Now he suggests using non detergent
40
wt. Which I'm doing.

Any other ideas out there on how to get the rings to seat?

Mike