In a message dated 95-09-06 10:31:09 EDT:

>hey now,
>
>call me crazy but i was changing the oil in my '74 transporter and cleaned
the
>screen and then noticed a bright orange oil filter...yes...an oil filter. am
>i crazy? i thought that the '74 had only an oil screen. i know this engine
>had been majorly rebuilt but would someone add an oil filter?
  hmmm....maybe
>i misread hayes and the idiots guide. i was sure that the '74 didn't have a
>filter.
>
>hopefully i'll get my axle in the mail from partsplace tommorrow and will be
>able to really drive the van for the first time since i bought it.
>
>jonathan
>'74 van

Yes, you really do have a filter.  1972 was the first year for these in the
Type II (added protection for very expensive engine parts).

SSG Brad Spear
1972 (with a 1973 1700cc) Westfalia
1987 (with a 1987 2100cc) Syncro GL