Date:         Mon, 8 Nov 2004 12:35:31 -0500
Reply-To:     OJBalson@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Oliver Balson <OJBalson@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Weird Tiico starting problem -- please Help!
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

I am new to this list but used to be involved with the type2list.

My name is Oliver Balson -- I have a 90 vanagon and 2500 miles ago installed the tiico engine conversion.  I have a strange starting problem that has come up since the tiico conversion.  I'd love some feedback on, as I am STUCK!


Around town, I have no problem -- van starts 100% of the time.  However, whenever I drive the van hard (70mph) for at least an hour, the van will not start once turned off!  It will not even turn over.  I have replaced the battery, starter, ingnition switch, and all electrical up front checks out. This has happened every road trip.

This past weekend, we pulled over to help a flat tire victim at 1am and the van would not crank back up!  We got a police escourt to the nearest hotel, and the next morning (8 hrs later) I tinkered with the van, but no luck.  I had 12.3 v at the battery, 12.3 v going into the starter, but no turning over at all.  A few hours later, we were towed 75 miles, and once the car was unloaded, it started right up.  This is very frustating, as it happens at the worst possible time and I am at a loss.

I am wondering if any experts have some ideas -- could something be locking up when the engine/trans? gets good and hot?  The starter will not turn over at all.  I'm certain this is not an ignition/electrical problem, as we've checked all grounds, even added an extra engine grounding strap. etc.? I also notice a lot more vibration in the gear shifter in the front of the van.   I am wondering if somehow the friction on the tranny is related?
highway, it will not restart afterward.

Any response would be appreciated!
Please help! Thanks so much.  Oliver