Dan,

Thank you for the reply.

I was to several auto parts stores, including Autozone, and never
saw the drain plug that you recommended.  I certainly would have tried
it, if I had.

Things have changed.  Yesterday, I purchased a kit of 5 different types
of 14mm drain plug gaskets.  It was a mistake since all but the copper
crush gasket were too big.  The copper gasket fit, but was somewhat
larger than the OEM gasket so I decided to give it a try.  I used the
OEM drain plug and tightened it to the specified 18 ft-lbs.  It has not
leaked a drop in 48 hours.

The leak is corrected for the moment.  I am still uneasy because I
don't know what is going on.  I won't argue with success, and I will
find more of those slightly oversize copper gaskets (21mm OD) before
the next oil change.  I will also keep the information about the drain
plug that you recommended.

Thank you and everyone else for your replies and advice.

Mike

------------------------ Original Message ------------------------
Date: Wed, 18 Apr 2018 15:48:58 -0700
From: Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com>
To: "Michael A. Radtke" <wa7zpu@5by9.net>
Cc: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
Subject: Re: Mysterious Oil Drain Plug Leak

I solve similar problem on my van using this

https://www.autozone.com/external-engine/oil-drain-plug/needa-parts-oil-drain-plug/257264_959455_0

I'd suggest that you bring your drain plug to the store and have them
match it.