Would this be the drain plug crush washer?
http://busdepot.com/details.jsp?partnumber=N0138492
If not, do you have the part number for either Bus Depot or Vanagain?  I'm
about to put in an order.
Patti
********************

On Nov 24, 2007 4:40 PM, Mike Collum <collum@verizon.net> wrote:

> Actually, Patti, Vanagons do better when the oil is between the Min and
> Max marks.  Even when I change the oil I only put enough fresh oil in to
> register about half way between them.  When at the Max mark (and
> certainly when over the mark) the oil tends to froth a bit.
>
> As to changing oil, there are some oil filters to avoid.  I always use a
> Mann or Mahle filter.  I replace the drain plug crush washer every time
> I remove the drain plug.  They are single use items.  If reused, the
> tendency is to overtighten the plug so as to prevent oil leaks and the
> threads in the case can be stripped.  My FLAPS doesn't carry the right
> size washers so I order a bunch of them at a time from places like
> BusDepot or Vanagain at the same time as I order filters.
>
> Many folks don't realize that the oil fill tube telescopes out a few
> inches.  Remove the oil cap and pull the inner section of the tube
> outward until it clicks.  I still use a long skinny funnel but the fact
> that the fill tube extends sure makes it easier.
>
> All that said, changing the oil and filter is pretty much like what
> you'd on any engine.  Remove drain plug and drain oil into a suitable
> container.  Replace crush washer on plug.  Put fresh oil into the new
> filter (about 3/4 of the way up) and screw it on.  Replace drain plug.
> Put fresh oil in being careful not to over fill.
>
> Where I am in northern Maine, I use Castrol 5W 50 oil in the winter.
> The engine would never start in the minus temperatures we experience
> otherwise.  I could use it year round if it were easier to get but 20W
> 50 is easy to get so that's what I use in warmer weather.  Another good
> choice is Mobil 1 15W 50.
>
> Mike
>
>
>
> PB wrote:
> > 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
> > *********************************
> > On Nov 24, 2007 4:07 PM, PB <pbrattan@gmail.com
> > <mailto:pbrattan@gmail.com>> wrote:
> >
> >     I just noticed that spoiler.  At first I thought it was part of the
> >     bumper.  It looks easy to remove.  When I have a little time I'll go
> >     under there with some screwdrivers and a flashlight and see how it's
> >     installed.  I bet that'll solve the problem.  It hangs down a good 5
> >     or 6 inches below the actual bumper.
> >     Patti
> >     ******************************
> >
> >     On Nov 24, 2007 3:29 PM, Mike Collum <collum@verizon.net
> >     <mailto:collum@verizon.net> > wrote:
> >
> >         Patti,
> >
> >         Your '90 has (had?) a spoiler (sometimes called an air dam)
> >         below the
> >         bumper that is probably what is dragging.  You can remove that
> >         spoiler
> >         if that's the problem.
> >
> >         Mike
> >
> >
> >
>