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Date:         Sun, 25 Mar 2001 17:54:12 -0500
Reply-To:     "Carlen, Gregg" <Gregg.Carlen@DYNCORP.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "Carlen, Gregg" <Gregg.Carlen@DYNCORP.COM>
Subject:      Won't start when hot OR cold
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Hey folks, I'm back on the list after being gone awhile. I have a problem
with my 85 1.9l waterboxer Westy. I had the problem of 'won't start when
hot' for quite awhile. It got worse and worse. Now its at the point where it
won't start at all. ANY advice at this point would be helpful! I've tried
everything I can think of. Here's what I've done so far:


Checked and cleaned EVERY negative ground point I can find (including
transmission grounding).
Added 2 additional grounding straps to the system (one from the engine to
chassis and one from tranny to chassis)
Cleaned terminals of battery and cables
Replaced the battery
Tried the 'add-a-solenoid' trick described in the archives (since removed
since it didn't make a difference and I figured why complicate the issue)
Replaced the starter/solenoid
Checked the alarm system contacts and function (aftermarket 'Hornet' alarm
system)
Checked every fuse and contact I could find under the dashboard
Replaced the starter switch on the steering wheel column


At point I could start the van only when the engine was cold. Then, I was
only able to start the van when I tapped on the starter solenoid while my
wife turned the ignition key. That deteriated in frequency, too. I was then
only able to start the van with a jump start from my other car or the
'start' mode on my battery charger. Then it only would start with the jump
start. Now, it won't start no matter what I do.


My theory: I think I have an intermittent open ground somewhere that I can't
find. I think it has deteriorated until it won't start now. Any advice?
Anyone got a free evening or day during the weekend in the DC area (Oakton)
that might be able to help by taking a look? I bought her in 1990 and its
been great. It's got 202k on it (I rebuilt the engine at $125k), it survived
the infamous blown head gasket problem and numerous other Vanagon common
problems. Anyone that can help or advise, please let me know. I'm about
fresh out of ideas.


Thanks,


Gregg Carlen
85 Westy (taking a rest from humans)
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