At 01:52 PM 09/20/2003, you wrote:
>Done, thanks for the advice. I have the Bentley and owners manual, but I
>like to consult the list because of the experience added since the manual
>was printed a decade ago. I figured someone would say that synthetic was
>the way to go, but apparently not.

Synthetics were not contemplated in the design of your motor. Your motor
will live wonderfully using the multi-weight standard oils called for by
your original manual. Standard oils of today have been up rated 5 times at
least since your motor was designed, and are a much better lubricant than
what was standard and used for the R&D that went into your engine design.
We already have improved lubrication from todays standard motor oils, with
no issues of used seals starting to leak from an unknown additive in your
synthetic choice.

There is great variety among synthetics. None of them have ever been tested
and approved retroactively to our 15 to 20 year old design, at least, not
by the VW factory. (They sure do approve them for some of the current
engines with current seals and clearances designed to be used with approved
synthetic lubes.) They cost 2 times or more the money. They don't lengthen
prudent change intervals nearly enough to cover the additional costs, only
but a trifle. Better cost per mile overall to use stock spec oil, and
change it before it gets dirty. This will double the life of the motor over
rule of thumb time/miles schedules. You learn by color, opacity, feel and
smell to change it in time but not before necessary.

When it comes to synthetics and snake oyl lubricants, never rely upon
manufacturer claims and testimonials, or the snippets of good news "amazing
results" provided by their "independent lab" reports. Stick with what is
given as stock for your motor as given in the owner's manual. No guessing
required.