Date:         Wed, 23 Jun 2004 15:00:10 -0500
Reply-To:     Larry Alofs <lalofs@RCN.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Alofs <lalofs@RCN.COM>
Subject:      Re: Ignition Switch Mystery Continues...anybody out there????
Comments: To: kevin obrien <kevindobrien@YAHOO.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed

kevin obrien wrote:
> Hello All:
>
> I haven't gotten any replies to last nights post about
> my 1990 Carats' Ignition Switch problem...in the
> meantime I have isolated the "clicking" sound to the
> fuse box (is there a starter relay in there???)
>
> A quick run down....
> Last week my low beams quite working and the only way
> to keep the high beams on was to hold the lever in.
>
> Next day the high beams/low beams were working
> ok...could switch between the two...and I noticed one
> of the small (high beam) lights was out. I replaced
> this bulb (H-3?) with one from Autozone.  Lights all
> worked...everything OK.
>
> Next morning I went to start Van...turn the key...and
> NOTHING.
>
> Figured it was the Ignition Switch. Bought one...and
> to check it I removed the plastic panel from beneath
> the steering column...pulled the wiring plug off the
> old switch and attached to the new one.  When I turn
> the swich with a screwdriver to the 1st position I
> hear the fuel pump kick on, oil light blinks, etc.
> When I turn it further to start the Van I hear a
> single click from in the Fuse Box.  (The starter is
> not turning over etc)
>
> Does the 2.1 have a Starter Relay...and if it is bad
> what are the signs?  ANyone have this happen before???
>
> Any help is appreciated.
>
> Kevin
>


It doesn't have a starter relay, but it should.
   You should check with a meter, like David said, to ensure that
voltage is reaching the small terminal on the solenoid when you turn the
switch to the start position.  If so, you can try tapping the solenoid
smartly with a hammer, again, while someone turns the switch.  If the
solenoid and starter are activated in this way, you have the classic
syndrome.
   In many cases the remedy is to install a relay near the starter.
Some of the vendors on the list sell a "hard start relay kit" which I
believe is from Bosch.  Or you can improvise your own with parts from
R*dio Sh*ck, etc.  A relay that will handle 30 or 50 amps with a 12V
coil would be suitable.

Larry A.