mikes@flatsurface.com (Mike S) writes:

>> Synthetic is actully not a great break-in oil.  This is why VW and
>> other makers who ordinarily require synthetic in their new engines
>> have a requirement to NOT change the oil during the initial break-in
>> period, because they have a special break-in oil filled from the
>> factory.
>
> Cite, please. Preferably, a link to a VW tech bulletin or other
> official document backing that up.

I don't have any access to factory TSBs but here's one site:

  http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/1108/faq.oilchange.html

To quote:

  1. VW-Audi uses a special "15W-40 factory fill oil" that you can NOT
     purchase. It is NOT the same as over-the-counter oils and has
     special break-in additives. I have confirmed this personally
     face-to-face with the lubricant engineer and lab technician at VW's
     Salzgitter, Germany engine assembly plant in both June/November of
     '96.

  2. VW-Audi changed the FIRST OIL CHANGE drain interval from model year
     (MY) '95 to MY '96 from 5,000 miles to 7,500 miles because some
     customers were experiencing delayed piston ring seating due to
     DRAINING the "factory fill oil" BEFORE the 5,000 mile MANDATE of
     the Owner's Manual. The '96 Passat Owners manual I have,
     P.N. 962.551.3A0.21 7/95, on page 128 CLEARLY emphasizes the FIRST
     OIL CHANGE MUST BE PERFORMED AFTER 7,500 miles. The wording has
     been analysed to the nth degree in the VW newsgroups and mail list,
     and no matter how anyone argues, they are unable to escape the
     reality that VW does NOT want you to drain the "factory fill oil"
     before 7,500 miles.

I've also read about point (2) in other places, though I cannot recall
where specifically.  Granted this is not specific to WBX motors but I
would think that synthetic might not be the BEST choice for a REBUILT
WBX.  We're not talking about a factory new Mercedes here....

But if you don't believe any of this, by all means do what you want with
YOUR motor.

Allan
--
1991 Vanagon GL