If you are using the correct oil filter --- Malhle or Mann -- then you
do not need a strp wrench or anoy of those weird things you find at
various parts houses.

The Mann/Mahle filter is shaped like a big nut. Go to Walmart and check
the oil filter and tool section . There you will find a filter wrench
that is shaped like and sized for "The Big Nut" shape of the Mann or
Mahle filter. The wrench accepts a 3/8" ratchet driver and makes it as
easy as sin to remove the filter. If you have another filter on your van
right now other than the Mann or Mahle, drive a screw driver through it
and give it a twist, or get a bisg strap wrench, but DO NOT put anything
back on it but the Mann or Mahle filter. There is an enormous anount of
information in the archives about why to use only the Mann or Mahle
filtes, but in a nut shell it helps eliminate the famous Vanagon
Collapsed and Clattering Lifter Syndrome. Has to do with the fact the
pressure relief valve spring in Mahle and Mann filters is sufficiently
to hold oil gallerie pressure when the engine is shut down, where other
brands are not. Result or the latter is the lifters bleed down and the
engine sounds like you have a valve gone bad or a lifter has failed.
Simple fix ....... install the Mahle or Mann filter. Coupled with the
proper filter, you must use 20W50WT oil in a WBX engine, unless it is
winter and you live in a really cold climate.

Good Luck,

John Rodgers
 88 GL Driver

Rob Campbell wrote:

> Would someone be so kind as to suggest an appropriate oil filter wrench
> for an 87 Vanagon GL?  I've only changed oil on motorcycles, but my
> new-to-me vanagon is due, and I have the filters from Busdepot ready and
> waiting.  Can I just stroll into Sears/Napa and get a Universal wrench,
> or ...?  I see in the Bentley manual they mention "us 4474", is that a
> specific size/type?  My websearching is not yielding answers to this
> quest.
>
> Thanks
>
> Rob Campbell
> 87 westy, Seattle
>