In a message dated 98-05-13 23:00:37 EDT, off_white@OLYWA.NET writes:

<< Then, it became apparent that the nipple
 was stuck in the filter.  Naturally, even with a rag on the nipple, the
 small pipe wrench mangled the threads a bit.  Instinct tells me it would be
 a mistake to thread that thing into my nice engine block, how hard is it to
 find another?>>

Depends on where you are. If there is a good VW dismantler nearby, you may be
able to get one off a bum motor. If you can't find another, you *MAY* be able
to buy a tap (or is it a die?) to clean/recut the buggered up threads of the
old nipple, seein' as how yer in a time pinch and all.

<<Absolutely gotta make the van run tomorrow.  And how does
 one keep it from coming out again?  Is it as simple as not letting some
 yahoo oil change outfit use an impact wrench to put the filter on?
 Suggestions appreciated... >>

Yes and no. I *would* seek a competent oil change place if the eybrow-pierced
fella at Jiffy-Lube isn't up to measure. However, when installing the nipple,
you should clean the threads, (male and female side) and use some "Loc-tite"
thread glue. This product is available in different levels of adhesion, from
"barely holds" to "survives re-entry without coming loose".  Ask the nose-
pierced  fella at the parts counter what level to use for this.

happy motoring.

gmbulley
cary, nc