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Subject:'87 Westy - Oil Change, out of hibernation
From:Jeremy Stovin
Date:Mon, 11 Mar 2013 07:04:22 -0700

Hi, still sort of a newbie, so be patient with my simpleton questions.
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We bought Lola, our '87 Westy last summer,�and in January, covered her up and put her in hibernation for a few months. Just took her out of her long rest and she started up no problem. But, I want to treat her right so I wanted to get some advice on her first days out of hibernation. Oil and coolant levels look good. No puddles underneath. I drove her around the block, and the engine seemed a bit tinny, but that may be normal as I hadn't listened to the engine in a while. 
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It was recommended that I change the oil, using Marvel Mystery Oil.� Someone else said I should put some Marvel Mystery Oil in now, drive it for a couple of weeks and then change the oil to normal oil. Someone else said I should change the oil with the MMO, then drive for a while and then change the oil again. 
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What is the general consensus on this?
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Other question: I am thinking of changing the oil myself, which I have not done on the van. (not sure if I ever changed the oil myself.) I do understand the basics. Is there anything tricky on a Vanagon I should be aware of? How many people tighten the oil plug without a torque wrench and just "feel it". 
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I am planning our first BIG trip this July, driving the family from Seattle to San Diego, and want our 5th family member running right.
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Anything else recommended we check on?
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Thanks in advance. Sorry for the long message.

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