Date:         Sat, 17 Oct 2009 11:26:47 -0700
Reply-To:     Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Subject:      Ground Cleaning time...any tips & tricks?
In-Reply-To:  <c280e73b0910171044i16a63b20n9f21bdfe987c5fc6@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

WiseList,

I've got some time this weekend, and am going to do some preventative maintenance and tune up of my 85 Vanagon GL with 175,000 miles on the original 1.9 engine.

First on the list is spark plugs, I like to use the Bosch Platinum plugs...have had trouble-free success with those.  But I've read on the List about cleaning grounds, and how doing that can really make a difference.  So my question is:  which grounds to clean?  Especially in the engine compartment, especially things that have to do with sensors and ignition.  Things like the Idle Control Valve, too, wherever that thing is.

Now, I live in sunny San Diego, and I keep my van (second vehicle) parked in my garage, so it's out of the weather almost all the time, which may explain it's longevity.  I do live about a mile from the beach though, and the "salt air" is abundant here, you notice the effect on aluminum window frames around the house.  So I figure an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Also, after cleaning up grounds, is it recommended to use di-electric grease so they stay clean?  On both the mating surfaces as well as the exposed external surfaces?

Rich
85 GL
San Diego