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Volkswagen

Oil Filter Leakage on Volkswagen Diesel Engines

Several bulletins and warnings have been issued regarding the proper installation of the oil filter on Volkswagen Diesel engines to avoid oil leakage.  This bulletin is a reminder to installers of the potential problems that may occur.

The Volkswagen Diesel was introduced in the 1977 VW Rabbit.  Shortly after introduction, complaints of leakage at the oil filter began.  As a result of the complaints, that continued into the '80's, the Federal Trade Commission lodged an investigation into the problem.  Their investigation focused on oil filter installation instructions and revealed that printed instructions were less than adequate.  Instructions on the replacement filter and in the vehicle owners' manual were different than instructions supplied to Volkswagen dealers in the form of product circulars.

The VW product circulars recommended that oil filters be tightened with a band-type wrench three-quarters turn past initial gasket contact.  They went on to say if the oil filter gasket tends to be "pushed out" after the filter is tightened as instructed, it would be necessary to replace the oil filter mounting flange to correct the problem.

The Federal Trade Commission Report ordered that the following instructions be supplied as an update to all previously printed owners manuals:

• Apply thin film of engine oil to the filter gasket.  (Do not use grease).

• Screw on filter by hand until filter gasket contacts flange firmly.

• Tighten filter 3/4 turn.  Use filter cap wrench US-4496 or equivalent, wrench extension and standard torque wrench.

• Check dipstick for correct oil level.

• Run engine at various speeds for 3-5 minutes.

• Stop engine, use filter cap wrench (center drive socket), extension and torque wrench for final check.  Torque must be at least 18 ft. lbs.

• Re-check dipstick for correct oil level.  Add oil as needed.

• Start engine and check for proper seal at the oil filter gasket

Investigations have revealed that oil leakage was contributed to by several factors.  Warped oil filter mounting flanges and mounting studs were either off center, cocked or both.  Bosch recommends that the oil filter (72174) be tightened "one full turn after initial gasket contact."  Laboratory tests have shown that this exceeds the minimum 18 ft. lbs. as recommended by the F.T.C.  Bosch further recommends the use of a cap-type wrench.  In addition, Bosch recommends that if leakage continues after proper installation or if the gasket appears to be "pushed out" that the oil filter mounting flange be replaced.

Source: Bosch Filter Catalog, 2000

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