Date:         Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:30:13 -0700
Reply-To:     John Reynolds <transporterjr@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Reynolds <transporterjr@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      Hot Start Problem
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I replaced my ignition switch last year after having a slight hot start problem, but mainly as preventive maintenance.  
Seemed so-so at first, but this year the problem has gottem worst; I figured "crummy replacement switch", so I replaced it again, but the problem remains.  
 
I thought it might have been just a low battery due to lack of use, but on a hot re-start, typcially the engine just barely seems to crank over and then catch.  But here's the kicker, one time on a cold start,   I turend the key and nothing but idiot lights, then I retried and it fired right up.  Possibly not related, possibly I just did not turn the key all the way as I was hurriyng to leave a camp-ground and follow friends - I am not sure.  The cold re-start problem only happened once, although it seems that the engine does not turn over as fast as it should, even cold.  
 
I've order a hot start relay kit, but should I focus on now?  I'll look and clean the starter contacts and chassis grounds.  
Also, I found an old post by Zoltan than mention starter brushes relative to this problem.  
 
Van is an 86 Wolfsburg Westfalia "weekender" camper with factory 2-battery set-up, but I only have one battery installed right now (I do have a 2nd battery not presently installed)
 4-speed, no AC or power optiones except mirrors.
 
John
LiMBO