Actually, there are several, all equally correct, answers, but only one real one. The original 15 degree diesels (Golf, Jetta, Dasher, etc.) all had a capacity with filter of 4.5 liters. The original Vanagon had a capacity of 4.0 liters with the 603A pan. The later European Vanagon 1.6L TurboDiesels with the different pan (number ?) had a capacity of 4.5 liters. The official oil level is then given by the pan number. Old pan ... 4.0 L, new pan ... 4.5 L. But the optimal oil level can easily be obtained for your installation at your powertrain slope angle using the tried and true Smokey Yurnick method. To wit: 1.) Put 3.5 liters in the crankcase after filter change and run the engine until fully warmed up. 2.) Park on a straight and narrow. 3.) Connect up tachometer to diesel. Use W terminal on Alternator or equivalent approach to measure idle rpm. 4.) Add oil in 0.2 liter increments until engine rpm drops. 5.) Stop engine, let sit for 15 minutes, check oil level, mark dipstick. You will have determined the maximum level of the oil sump before the onset of heavy crank splash and oil aeration. Actually, I've been known to siphon out 200 mls. then add 100 mls. back. Alternatively there is the borescope method. Add oil and watch the onset of frothing. Frank Grunthaner |
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