Date:         Thu, 8 Jul 2004 08:59:36 -0700
Reply-To:     Larry Edson <sonofed@KARMANNGHIA.ORG>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Edson <sonofed@KARMANNGHIA.ORG>
Subject:      New owner issues - '85 Vanagon
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

I recently picked up this Vanagon that has been very well cared for and
came with a large stack of receipts and documentation - even the window
sticker from the dealership is there - but it does have a couple issues
that I'd like help with.

First off, the guage cluster appears to have a grounding problem. Some
days I'll turn the key and the tach/lights/gauges work just fine. Next
time I get in - nothing. Is this a common problem? I figure cleaning the
electrical contacts for the cluster will be the first step but if anyone
has had to do anything further to permanently fix this problem please let
me know.

Second, when the engine is warm it most always idles at 1800 rpm. I've
seen comments on the Type2 list about something called a decel valve but
have no idea where to look for this or even if this is really the problem.
I'm hesitant to fork out the money for a part that I have no idea what it
looks like or where to look for it in the engine bay.

Third, the engine seems to have less power than the '84 Vanagon I just
threw away. That one had coolant leaks from day 1 which led to its demise
but did have pretty good pickup. The new one runs great and has no leaks
which was a big factor in buying it. I'm wondering if possibly the
catalitic converter might be choking off the power and need replacing.

Larry
sonofed@karmannghia.org
www.ghiatwins.homestead.com
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