there's a reason to change it in the spring too..........
moisture condenses inside the sitting engine all winter.
I don't think it's as critical or necessary to change it also in the
spring........compared to the after summer, pre-winter storage oil change,
but any car part with moving parts and an oil system, like a transmission or
engine, suffers from just sitting, especially in the winter, or in humid
conditions, or cold conditions.  Moisture condenses inside sitting
housings........................ like  the fuel tank,  come to think of it.

speaking of.............very important to put a fuel stabilizer in the fuel,
like Sta-bile.
Scott
www.turbovans.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jack R." <jack007@COMCAST.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, September 06, 2008 4:22 PM
Subject: Re: change oil before winter storage?

> Jeff,
>
> No need to change the oil "after" winter storage.  The reason for the
> change
> just before storage, is that sulfates accumulate in oil as you use the
> vehicle, and that is acidic.  If you change the oil before storage, the
> acid
> level of the oil is not high, and therefore would not be as prone to
> causing
> ill effects on the internal systems.  Just a good practice!  And in the
> spring, you are ready to rock n' roll!
>
> Jack R.
> 84 Westy Wolfie (stored winters in Michigan)  Garage, with plastic under
> the
> van to reduce moisture from the concrete, also the garage is insulated and
> somewhat air tight.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Jeff Palmer
> Sent: Saturday, September 06, 2008 6:00 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: change oil before winter storage?
>
> Hi folks,
>
> Someone suggested not too long ago that they change their oil before
> and after winter storage.  I'm due for an oil change, and will be
> storing it in about a month.  Is there cause to change the oil before
> i store it, and again in the spring?
>
> Thanks
> Jeff in Winnipeg
> 85 Westfalia with Boston Bob 2.1