Date:         Sun, 1 Sep 2013 01:22:12 -0400
Reply-To:     David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David Beierl <dbeierl@ATTGLOBAL.NET>
Subject:      Re: A Mystery
Comments: To: JRodgers <jrodgers113@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <522284F2.70309@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

At 08:06 PM 8/31/2013, JRodgers wrote:
>Key in the ignition - Tranny to neutral, turn switch - system hot, pause
>- turn switch to engage starter. Starter engages and turns engine like
>crazy.

Does "like crazy" mean faster than normal?  That would indicate a
mechanical problem with compression, which could make the engine hard to start.

>  Engine refuses to start. Doesn't even sputter. Ignition off - try
>a gain. Same scene. No start - even a sputter.

If cranking is normal rather than fast, likeliest candidate is the
ignition switch, I would think, breaking the 15 circuit when the key
is turned to start.  Quick test would be to try starting by using a
remote switch or jumper lead from alternator B+ to the starter
control terminal.  If it will start that way I'd call it a very good
bet that the ignition switch is the culprit.

Failing that it's time to get out the voltmeter and see what should
be getting voltage and isn't.  Possibly an engine ground problem
brought out by the high cranking current?

Yours,
David