Correct.  Vanagon engines need running.  Clanking lifters are the way it goes.  If you drive your Vanagon every week, you will never hear.
    On Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 09:10:58 AM PDT, Mark McCulley <mark@markmcculley.com> wrote:  
 
 | I hope we get an update on the engine.  Did it improve after running?

In the case of my Vanagon, the noisy lifter will become quiet after driving for a bit. It helps to keep RPMs up around 4000.

It's annoying but I can live with it. I rarely drive my Vanagon these days, that's probably part of the problem. I did try a dose of Marvel Mystery Oil, that did help for while but wasn't a permanent fix.

-Mark