On diesel engines, it is not necessary to remove the crankcase cover or sump plate to change the oil, just drain the oil through the drain plug. With these engines, the crankcase gasket often sweats and in some cases is so digested that it leaks. Do not continue to drive with it, but replace the gasket as soon as you notice any leakage.
This seal is made of paper identical to the factory gasket and is not only used in our classic Volkswagen Bus, but is also found in later Volkswagen models.
Years after production of the Volkswagen Vanagon ended, a modified version was released. The paper was replaced by rubber, with an internal metal frame ensuring that the gasket stayed in place, and additional reinforcement around the bolt holes.
Paper gasket
If you opt for 100% identical ex-works, then you choose for paper and additionally use a liquid gasket (mentioned in the options tab), no thick layer of liquid gasket is used but a light rubbing on both sides is sufficient.
Rubber gasket
If you want an improved gasket, you take the rubber gasket, which was also originally used as a modification but never during the production years of the VW Vanagon. Remember that you must now use longer M6 X 25 housing bolts instead of the M6 X 22 mm that are factory fitted.
In the alternatives tab, you will find the other joint than the one currently listed.
Useful information from Paruzzi magazine and from our YouTube channel :
Look for more technical articles on the page Paruzzi Magazine