forwarded from the Tiico list.....

Hi everybody,
������The engine is acting a little squirrely again. �I've been getting a lot 
of clatter from the valves. �Since this is not a diesel semi, I decided to 
check the oil level and pressure. �Level is fine, using Mobil 1 15W-50. �I 
bought an oil pressure gauge at Walmart for $6 and installed it (it is the 
tube type, not electric, so it doesn't go all the way to the dash. �It's 
mounted in the back, where I can see it in the rearview mirror).

I started up the engine, which was slightly warm. �The gauge read 70 psi at 
idle. �So I revved it to 2000 rpm, got 90 psi. �At 3000 rpm, pegged it at 100 
psi. �So I let it idle a little bit more. �The pressure eventually dropped to 
50, but still climbed rapidly with any acceleration.

So, what the hell is this all about? �I've heard of folks seeing 80 psi when 
barreling down the highway, but rolling down my block at 15 mph? �I've also 
heard that too much pressure is bad for the engine. �What could be causing 
this high pressure? �And can high pressure cause valve clatter?

If anyone else has figures to offer, please write back. �I will be checking 
through the Vanagon archives and looking up specs for Golfs on the Internet. 
�Thanks.

Bill Marshall
85 GL Tiico "Pandora's Box"
Bradenton FL