Date:         Wed, 22 Dec 1999 19:46:10 -0700
Reply-To:     Kent Christensen <lkchris@USWEST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Kent Christensen <lkchris@USWEST.NET>
Subject:      Re: New EPA rules for gasoline
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

re:  Is the lower sulphur level in the next generation of gasoline
going to do terrible things to our WBX engines?

This question has not been answered here yet, the only response so far
being an unsupported "no."  Something also along the lines of
"politicians wouldn't ... ."

Well, on motorcycle lists, there is much consternation over the switch
to SJ formulated oils (another USA thing) and the fact the reduced
zinc content is detrimental to motorcycle engines, especially air
cooled engines and engines with transmissions in the engine sump,
using same motor oil for lubrication.  Motorcycle manufacturers (and
Briggs and Stratton) are recommending against use of SJ oils--older SH
formulations are still available (from them of course) as
higher-priced specialty oils.  Have not heard any discussion of this
on this list from our air cooled contingent, and have not tried to
lurk on a Porsche list.

Points are

1.  Question regarding sulphur has not been answered with data

2.  Don't assume politicians care about older vehicles.

Now, it's my understanding that removing sulphur from gasoline
requires more sophisticated refining/filtering and haven't heard it's
an "additive" for lubrication--rather it's something that's there
naturally.  This does not negate the suggested points regarding
diesels, however, as there is always willingness to accept
serendipity, but this enquiring mind wants to know more.

Also, we need to recognize that our Vanagons, especially early ones
like mine, are pretty rare in the automotive world, as most vehicles
this age are off the road by now.  Were currently not quite "antiques"
or "collector cars" but certainly in the "older, high-polluting
vehicle" category already.  Whatever we are, we're definitely a
minority, and even I wouldn't lobby my Congressman to protect
remaining 1981 vehicles.