This message is to inform you about a problem with the new motor oils.
There is a lot of information around about the reduction of ZDDP in oil formulations. ZDDP is a extreme lubricant additive. The oil companies are lowering the amount of it because of its effects on exhaust emissions.
The VW engine needs the extra lubricant that ZDDP provides.
With traditional oil formulations, I have had no problems reaching 1,000 hours time on an engine. I now have had two engines with approximately 350 hours wear out bearings.
From what I see, it is not a lack of oil because both engines had good oil pressure and oil temperature. It just looks like the oil is not lubricating enough.
What I am recommending is using either a diesel grade oil or a racing oil. Both have higher amounts of ZDDP. There are ZDDP additives also. Synthetic oils are not much better.
I am by no means an expert scientist on this subject, but this is the only answer I have to this problem.
Scott Casler
Hummel Engines