Date:         Mon, 5 Sep 2016 07:39:45 -0700
Reply-To:     Steve Williams <sbw@SBW.ORG>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Steve Williams <sbw@SBW.ORG>
Subject:      Re: Gowesty starter problems
In-Reply-To:  <0F9D8819-4D23-491A-8D88-1ECB993031EC@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1252; format=flowed

On 9/5/2016 3:24 AM, Dennis Jowell wrote:
> ... starter does not work now.
> Gowesty wants $299 for a new one.

You didn't clearly say whether your failed starter is stock?

The GoWesty $299 starter is a gear reduction starter, not the stock starter.

I had Van Cafe install a gear-reduction starter in October, 2012, and I
love it.  It has been completely reliable.  I don't know whether it's
exactly the same model as GoWesty's.  I suggest you call Van Cafe to
discuss options.  (They have the TDI starter and adapter plate, too.
That's different from the one I installed.)

I paid $269 four years ago.  Van Cafe's web site says $285 now.

I struggled with stock starters since GoWesty installed the 2.3L engine
in 2009.  I had one or two failed starters, and even when they worked, I
often had to sit in the parking lot for 30 minutes to let the engine
cool down enough for the starter to turn it over.

Since installing a gear reduction starter, I've had zero problems
starting.  It's one of my favorite upgrades.