I use Redline synthetic 15W40 turbo diesel oil in my 82 diesel Westy and noticed easier
morning startups, a little quieter operation, and cooler engine temps.  I also use Redline
diesel fuel additive.

As of my latest calculation, I may have sqeezed out another 2 mpg also, but that may not
be terribly accurate.

Oh, and I have NOT sprung ANY oil leaks, contrary to popular belief, and didn't have any
before hand.

I don't plan to have extended drain intervals, but I do know that my 1.6 engine is way
overstressed in normal daily operation, even not going over 60 mph on the highway.  BUT I
don't see why spending the extra dollars is such a big deal.  When you pay the $$$ for
your Vanagon, or for a new engine, the extra bucks at oil change time, even if double the
normal cost, is well worth it.

In my air cooled engines, in over 30 of my VWs I have owned, I always have used Valvoline
30 weight in the winter and 40 weight in the summer (straight weight oils).

I use Valvoline 10W30 synthetic blend in the late model water cooled I4 engines, and just
regular Valvoline 20W50 in my water cooled Vanagon engines.

Just my two cents.  Hope it helps someone....

Dan
Manassas, VA
82 Diesel Westy
86 Westy GL
53 Split Window Beetle
98 New Beetle

----- Original Message -----
From: Steve Cotsford <Piper109@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, October 21, 1999 6:14 PM
Subject: Re: OIL, What do you use?

> Do you know for sure that Castrol is made napthenic oil?
> I'd like to know as I use it too.
> Steve
>