Date:         Tue, 15 Apr 2003 22:57:29 -0400
Reply-To:     Sylvie et Germain <reglys@SYMPATICO.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Sylvie et Germain <reglys@SYMPATICO.CA>
Subject:      Idle Stabilization Valve
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Hi everybody

This mailing list is very very nice and motivating to learn more about the Vanagon.

My 87 Westfalia is starting well when the weather is warm. Let say above 60F. (I'm leaving in Canada). However when it is cold, the engine is not easy to start. The idle is very rough and I need to keep the throttle slightly open during the warming up. I suspect the Idle Stabilizer Control Unit (ISCU) and the Idle Stablization Valve. I had a quick look inside the ISCU and I notice the power transistor was burned. I also checked the Impedance of the Idle Valve and it is 0 ohm. What should be the Impedance of this valve? If mine is 0 ohm, it could explain why the transistor overheated. What is the failed status of this valve (open or closed). If it is failed open, my RPM should be bigger than 1000 RPM (right now it is 1000 RPM). If it is failed closed, I guess there is kind of bypass to keep air flowing otherwise the motor shouldn't start.

Do you know how this valve work? The Digifant Pro training Book says, the valve should be humming. I didn't feel anything. Is it a ON-OFF valve or a Valve you can modulate the opening?

Any experience with these devices? 
 
Thank you

Germain