[Nader]

Newly aquired used 1996 TDI Passat B4 Sedan in USA 110,000 miles
Pulled off bottom shield and oil pan shield and found a generous oil leak. Is the oil pan seal to be suspected or should I look in other spot? Seems to be coming from above oil pan on front side of engine. Any experience similar to this?
Shimmy on acceleration. Most noticeable at 30 to 35 mph. Other sites suggest inner CV problem or worn suspension. Anybody else fixed a similar shimmy? No problem when cruising at hwy speed or when accelerator released.

 

[GoFaster]

Re: Oil leak, shimmy while accelerating on 96 Passat TDI (Nader)

Re oil leak: Check the flange at the bottom of the hose that goes up to the round black crankcase vent housing (it's near the mounting block for the oil filter). If there's oil in that area, take the hose and flange assembly off (you'll have to remove an oil pressure switch ... don't mix up the wires). Betcha there's a crack at the bottom of that flange. It's not visible with the flange in place. New one is not horribly expensive.
Vibration ... can't help there, mine has never done that.