Patti,
Changing the oil and filter is dead simple and it does not require access to the
engine compartment, or even raising the rear end. The oil level between half and full
is okay, what's more important is how many months or miles since the last change. And
I would be careful about having high schoolers do it, all of whom were born about the
time Vanagons stopped being made. Unless, of course, it was some of the youngsters on
this list :). If you are going to do it, take your own filter, the correct oil and a
new crush washer for the drain plug, and make sure they don't overtighten that drain
plug or overfill the oil.
Jerry

----- Original Message -----
From: "PB" <pbrattan@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, November 24, 2007 5:18 PM
Subject: Re: What do I need?

> Another question:  are there any "quirks" about changing the oil in a
> vanagon?  My oil is about halfway between the full and add oil mark on the
> dipstick.  I'd like to change the oil and filter instead of adding more.
> The automotive technology class at my high school does oil changes, so if
> it's simple and routine, I'll let them do it.  Of course I'd remove the rear
> cushions and tarp everything in sight!  I've had work done in high school
> classes.  The work is usually good, but there are often a few oil smudges
> where they don't belong.
> Patti