Budd Premack
86 Syncro, 73 Super
Minneapolis, MN
bpremack@wavetech.net

----------
> From: bpremack <bpremack@wavetech.net>
> To: Vanagon List <vanagon@gerru.sdsc.edu>
> Subject: Continued oil buzzer/warning light hassle
> Date: Thursday, September 25, 1997 12:54 PM
>
> Thanks to all listees who gave advice on this problem 2 weeks ago.
>
> Vehicle: 86 Syncro, 131M, engine in good shape.
>
> Symptoms: The oil warning light/buzzer come on after the first cold start
> of the day.  The warning begins about 30 seconds after start-up (about
the
> time the engine gets to 1500+ rpm, and maintains that minimum rpm for a
few
> seconds).  If I simply idle longer at initial start up, the warning waits
> until I drive off and the revs get to 1500+.  This regularly occurs if
> ambient overnight temps are under 60 F.  (In Minnesota, most nights are
> colder than this.)  Warning stops after a few tenths of a mile of 30 mph
> driving.  Occasionally, warning comes on at idle after engine is fully
> warmed up, but stops as soon as normal driving resumes.
>
> Initial solution: Dump Valvaline 10-40 and Fram filter, and replace with
> official VW filter and Castrol 20-50.
>
> Results: Warning comes on at same time but seems to go off sooner.
>
> Qustions: Am I really low on oil pressure?  What should be done next?
>
> Research: Vanagon archives indicate a "high" and a "low" oil pressure
> switch.  The "high" (.9 bar, 13.1 psi) switch is effective at 2000+ rpm.
> Does this mean that I should get a new "high" switch and/or check all
> electrical connections for this circuit to assure that warnings are
> accurate instead of electical gremlins.  If switch is ok (and/or replaced
> if defective), does this mean warnings are accurate (as the symptoms
> replicate consistently), indicating oil pump replacement is necessary.
>
> Any hints/advice will be greatly appreciated.
>
>
> Budd Premack
> 86 Syncro, 73 Super
> Minneapolis, MN
> bpremack@wavetech.net
>