I doubt believe in using any oil additives. Not not needed with modern lubricants. My choice of oil is Mobil, 15w-50 and if willing to spend $$ for a filter the M1-205. Be sure not to over fill. I use 4.5 quarts staying below the "max" mark.

Dennis,
And I still can't type on this Windows 8 Phone!
________________________________
From: Jeremy Stovin<mailto:jjstov@YAHOO.COM>
Sent: ‎3/‎11/‎2013 10:04 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM<mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Subject: '87 Westy - Oil Change, out of hibernation

Hi, still sort of a newbie, so be patient with my simpleton questions.

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.

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.

What is the general consensus on this?

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".

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.

Anything else recommended we check on?

Thanks in advance. Sorry for the long message.