Date:         Sat, 10 Aug 2002 11:55:44 -0500
Reply-To:     Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Subject:      Re: Intermittant starting problem with 1986 Vanagon GL
Comments: To: "Christine H. Stinson" <chstinson@EARTHLINK.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

"Christine H. Stinson" wrote:
>
> We have a 1986 Vanagon GL that ususally starts but commonly
> (once/twice per week) doesn't start.
>
> The only pattern I notice is that it seems to have something to do
> with moisture/condensation.  The evidence for that is...  After a
> heavy rainstorm, it usually doesn't start (even if the Vanagon was
> just sitting parked during the storm).  On a cool morning after a
> hot, humid day, it often doesn't start (50/50).
>
> One friend suggested spraying WD-40 into the distributor when it
> doesn't start.  Sometimes, but not reliably, the Vanagon will start
> an hour after that.  Otherwise, it seems to take 6-24 hours of "down
> time" for the Vanagon to start again.
>
> I would appreciate any suggestions for diagnostic tests to run, parts
> to replace that aren't terribly expensive, etc.
>
> Thank you!
>
> Christine
> Earlysville, Virginia 22936

WD is claimed to stand for "water displacing", but I don't use it on
ignition because it leaves a thin oil film.  This film will eventually
collect a layer of dust and that layer becomes electrically conducting
when it gets damp.
  I prefer to spray and/or wipe with isopropyl alcohol (91 or 97% if
possible).  The inside and outside of the distributor cap and the end of
the coil should be cleaned very carefully this way.  Remove the wires
(one at a time) to get better access.
  Check the condition of your wires by starting the engine in the dark
and misting with a spray bottle.  If you see sparks jumping around, get
a set of Bosch replacement wires. About $70 last time I bought them.

Good luck,
Larry A.