Date:         Thu, 1 Jul 1999 22:53:42 -0700
Reply-To:     Stuart <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stuart <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Subject:      Re: DISASTER AT JIFFY LUBE!!!!
Comments: To: Caston/Payne <happycampers@PICUSNET.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Geez, it is far easier and less stressful to do it yourself!

And responsibly too. I recycle my oil and drained filters (I puncture
them with a can opener to drain) at the local recycling station.  Every
six months or 5000 miles (more than adequate with modern oils and better
for the environment than 3000 miles), and not too often to deal with in
my case.

You don't even need to jack up the van, it is high enough work under.
Half hour at the most.  Honestly, less time than driving, waiting,
watching, worrying and supervising a complete idiot. And, you can check
for leaks, shake your CV joints, inspect rear brake condition, and
detect other undercar problems while you are at it. You know it is done
right as well.

This is how you avoid surprises; they almost always give you a clue they
are imminent somewhere under the vehicle.

Get intimate with your vehicle!  Buy a used pair of coveralls, a good
oil drain container, a professional quality oil filter wrench, and a
good hand cleaner.  No serious Vanagon owner should miss out on this
wonderful experience!

If you want sources for the above, p-mail me.  It will cost you less
than two changes at JL, and the satisfaction is boundless!

Stuart MacMillan
At Home.