I find that if I run mine full, it uses a little oil until its down to
midway between the marks on the dip stick. Then  it stops. So I just
keep it filled to the halfway mark.

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Gerald Masar wrote:

>I have a '90 Westy with 160K and slightly less compression readings. On a long trip,
>it may start out full and after 1200-1500 miles get down to the halfway on the
>dipstick and stay there. I have owned it since new and seldom drive over 60-65. I
>think a lot depends on how it was driven most of it's life.
>Consensus seems to be that the engine runs cooler if the oil level is kept not full,
>but halfway between add and full.
>Jerry
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "-- Dan Roberts" <DanielCRoberts@AOL.COM>
>To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>Sent: Monday, February 23, 2004 9:50 AM
>Subject: 89 Vanagon oil usage question
>
>
>
>
>>I purchased an 89 Vangagon Westfalia in the spring of 2003 and, on the
>>recommendation of a VW mechanic, had the head gaskets and rings replaced. He also
>>completed several other engine repairs including replacing the wiring harness,
>>plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, water pump and fuel pump. This vehicle
>>has been driven 140,000 miles. I believe the previous owner gave it reasonably
>>good care but was not nearly as conscientious as I am.
>>
>>My question is about oil usage. I have driven to the east and west coast on
>>the interstate from Wisconsin. I drive at 70 mph and find that this vehicle
>>uses a quart of oil every 1200 to 1400 miles. Is this normal use? By the way, I
>>had a compression test completed and it showed: 125 - 140 - 120 - 140. The VW
>>dealership insists the oil use is normal but I ask for your experience. Any
>>comments will be appreciated.
>>
>>
>
>
>