In a message dated 11/24/07 7:29:42 PM Eastern Standard Time,
pbrattan@GMAIL.COM writes:

> 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
>

well, if jiffy lube morons can screw up a vanagon oil change, i certainly
wouldnt let high school kids do it.  and you dont even need to go into the upper
engine access hatch or interior to change the oil anyway.  access is just
behind the liscence plate (oil fill tube telescopes - pull on it -  for ease of
adding oil) and under the van for the filter and drain plug. (ps, the drain plug
is screwed into the bottom of the engine case..if you strip the threads,
youve got bit problems these is no such thing as "replacing the oil pan").   you
live in SF..  just about every shop in the bay area knows how to change oil on
a vanagon..just take it to a good vw shop and there are plenty of them in SF.

oh and your supposed to change your oil every 3000 mi, not just when it gets
low..  if its low, you have to add some, even if inbetween oil changes.

as far as your front bumper scraping, your '90 prolly has the orig. tiny 185
14 tires and the front rubber air dam is scraping on those steep san francisco
pavement grades..
 if its a problem, just unscrew the airdam (phillips screws) and store it for
safekeeping.

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