Skip to main content
Gerry | Vanagon
Checking account...
← vanagon.com home · Continue the discussion in the forum
Subject:Roadhaus - Oil Leak diagnostics
From:Larry Chase
Date:Fri, 8 Aug 2003 16:24:07 -0800

Volks,

For some time now I have had a pesky oil leak.

Either in Anchorage or Fairbanks I want to find someone to take a look
at it.

Hope to be able to get a oil dye test done.

Please take a look at my write up of the situation and suggest any
possible causes I haven't thought.

I'd really like to get it properly diagnosed.

Facts:

Has leaked since the engine was rebuilt.
Was diagnosed as a leaky oil pump cover gasket ... but I'm not so sure.
The exhaust system was pulled three times and various types of gaskets
and even oil pump covers were used.
Can't tell exactly where the oil is coming from, other than the back /
rear end side of the engine below the pulley.
Pools oil on the frame member under the engine and Sprays/Throws oil all
over the rear hatch
Leaks 1/2 to 1 qrt per 1,000 miles

Possible Observation:

Seems to me it leaks more oil when I have been pulling hills and running
under loads ... ie third gear etc.

Know possible causes:

Dip stick coming out ...... doesn't seem to be the case
Dip stick tube damaged or leaking ... possible
Oil pump cover gasket ... possible
Oil sending unit cracked and spraying oil ... possible

Does anyone have any other possible causes?

Things I should have checked out.

"Don't let your Dreams be Dreams."
  - Jack Johnson

Larry Chase
Email: RoadGuy@RoadHaus.com
Web:  <http://www.roadhaus.com/> www.RoadHaus.com
Cell: 480 620 8966
What: North American Road Trip
How: RoadHaus - 1990 White VW Westfalia Syncro
Today: Roaming the Yukon & Alaska.