Date:         Sun, 30 May 2010 10:25:01 -0400
Reply-To:     W Monk <billmonk@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         W Monk <billmonk@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      That darn tranny ground strap
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

I had someone come look at the used 2.1 I have for sale yesterday.  He is on
the fence about installing another boxxer or a diesel in his syncro. If he
wanted the motor we
were going to pull it then. In prep of him coming I removed the cv bolts,the
shift linkage,and not thinking pulled the tranny to body ground strap. I had
started the motor the day before doing all this. It does run really nice but
had small exhaust leak at the number three pipe.
He shows up with his son. I try and start the van. It won't start. He has
driven a couple hours now to come see this motor I had told him was a good
runner. I check the wire on teh starter its loose. I push it on tighter. No
start. I keep fussing with it. I can hear the fuel pump running but not
turning off after building pressure  like it usually does when the key is
turned on. Finally after looking like an jerk,I see the ground strap  pulled
off. I hook the ground strap up,she starts right up. I don't blame him for
not buying it after that show ,but I think he is really set on getting a TDI
into his syncro. So a quick recap:

If you have these symptoms:

Starter won't turn. Not even click
Voltage at the alternator post and battery post with key on is 2 to 3
volts***
When key is turned to on position fuel pump runs and doesnt shut off after
building pressure

***NOTE: I was reading these voltage values by grounding the meter to the
engine block,don't know how the measurements would have changed if I had put
the ground lead
                    to chassis.

 Check your ground strap from front transmission mount to body!!


Have a good day.

Bill

P.S. Used nice running 2.1 for sale  must go...$500.00     or a complete 0
mile rebuild $2000.  Take them both for 2300.00!!!!