Richard,

Thanks for the tip.  I'm going to change the oil and filter using a vw
filter and 20w50 castrol first.  If that doesn't help, I'll try taking out
the cluster.  As I mentioned, I'm a rookie...so I've never taken a vanagon
cluster out.  I am mechanically inclined with a Bentley and I'm sure there's
something in the archives mentioning how to take the cluster out...so I'll
give it a go.

Brett

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf Of
Richard Stevens
Sent: Thursday, May 19, 2005 3:36 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Oil warning light and buzzer go off when going uphill

Hi Brett

I've had this problem in the past...it's a nuisance to say the least but
after doing all the things recommended by and from the list nothing cured
the intermittent buzzer ( I even changed the engine for a recon unit and the
electronic PCB behind the speedometer) It was only when disconnecting the
multi plug and socket that links the instrument console with the rest of the
van circuitry it was discovered that there was evidence of corrosion on the
pins of this plug/socket. The pins and sockets were cleaned and contact
cleaner /preserver applied and the alarm (fingers crossed) has stopped and
peace of mind restored.

Richard

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Brett Whistler
Sent: 19 May 2005 03:53
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Oil warning light and buzzer go off when going uphill

Hello Listee:

I'm a rookie...so I apologize ahead of time for any stupid questions.  I
have an '86 Syncro w/ a 2.1 L WBX that was rebuilt ~1,500 miles ago.  I just
purchased the van, and it's been running great.  I live in the mountains of
Park City, UT and many times am driving up and down steep hills.  Today I
was driving up a steep hill and my oil warning light and buzzer started
sounding.  I immediately pulled over and put a quart of oil in it...without
checking the level first.  That was a mistake.  I start up...make it until
the next hill, and the warning starts up again.  I pull over and THIS TIME
check the oil on a level surface.  I'm 1 quart over now.  I don't think I
was ever low obviously.  The warning doesn't occur when I'm on the flats or
going down hill.
1. Any suggestions as to where to start?
2. Should I stop driving it until I resolve this...even though the warning
usually doesn't go off?

Thanks,

Brett