After reading the several replies I wanted to add a few things.

The shudder is a recent phenom.  The van has near 200K on it but I
wouldn't say the condition of the mounts or anything else has recently
gotten worse.  It was pretty old when I got it.

I haven't checked my brake fluid reservoir in quite a while.  I probably
should just to make sure there is enough to properly actuate the clutch
slave.  Now that I think about it the shudder began recently after a
front brake job.  I'm fairly sure the mechanic did nothing to the brake
fluid since he wasn't a VW guy & probably didn't even know where it
was...just put the pads on the front.

I've noticed some oil spattered on the surface of my rear hatch for some
time...not an immense amount but some.  I did not notice needing to add
any more oil than has been necessary since I got the Vanagon and it
doesn't use more than .5 qt. in a few tank fulls of gas.

--

Wil

-- http://www.charmfx.com/

"In action a great heart is the chief qualification. In work, a great
head."
-- Arthur Schopenhauer