Kari Williams wrote:
>
> when i try to check the oil level, i pull the dip stick thing out, wipe it
> off, shove it back in and pull it back out and... the oil smears all over the
> whole length of the stick and i have no idea how much oil i have. i also own
> a jetta III and when i check the oil on that car, it is really obvious how
> much oil i have. what am i doing wrong with the vanagon? the gas station
> attendant couldn't do it, either.
> ~kari
Kari

I've had similar problems. I think the angle of the dipstick tube is the
problem. It's pretty close to horizontal. So you have to have the
vanagon ABSOLUTELY LEVEL when you check the oil, especially front to
back levelling. If this is difficult for you to sense, you may need to
get a "level". Go to a hardware store and explain the problem. They will
have various devices to help you determine when your van is level.
Expect to spend $5-20 for a good one. Another tip is to wait a few
minutes after turning the engine off for the "froth" in the oil to
settle down. Various kinds of oil and/or various conditions affect the
amount of froth (bubbles) that can end up giving you spurious readings.
Best wishes on your trip. Take lots of books and devices to help you
read after dark without waking each other up!

Larry (2 sons, 1 daughter)