Date:         Mon, 23 Feb 2004 11:50:04 EST
Reply-To:     DanielCRoberts@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         -- Dan Roberts <DanielCRoberts@AOL.COM>
Subject:      89 Vanagon oil usage question
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

I purchased an 89 Vangagon Westfalia in the spring of 2003 and, on the
recommendation of a VW mechanic, had the head gaskets and rings replaced. He also
completed several other engine repairs including replacing the wiring harness,
plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, water pump and fuel pump. This vehicle
has been driven 140,000 miles. I believe the previous owner gave it reasonably
good care but was not nearly as conscientious as I am.

My question is about oil usage. I have driven to the east and west coast on
the interstate from Wisconsin. I drive at 70 mph and find that this vehicle
uses a quart of oil every 1200 to 1400 miles. Is this normal use? By the way, I
had a compression test completed and it showed: 125 - 140 - 120 - 140. The VW
dealership insists the oil use is normal but I ask for your experience. Any
comments will be appreciated.