It is somewhat common for Vanagon engines to use oil. The cylinders being on
their side, consumption through the intake valve guides, fuel dilution
causing burn off al can have an effect. One also has to be careful when
checking the oil so as not to get a false reading.

1) Van-engine needs to be level, even side to side.
2) Engine needs to be fully warmed up, but allow time after shut down for
the oil to drain down back into the sump. When stopping for fuel, check the
level after filling.
3) Avoid overfilling! The top mark is not the full mark! It is the maximum
do not exceed no matter what mark. For extended long hi speed operation
between the marks is best. The more you try to keep it "full" the more it
will burn off. Also the higher fill promotes excessive heat and reduced oil
pressure.
4) Be sure to use the correct oil. The Waterboxer likes higher viscosity
stuff.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jon Durham
Sent: Monday, May 07, 2012 12:15 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Enigma: where's the oil going?

My 85 vanagon inexplicably lost 2 quarts of oil. over a very short time
(4 months). There is no oil leak and no smoky exhaust.
--
"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened."
Anatole France