The discussion about fixing the hot start problem related to a failing/overheated solenoid led me to think about more preventive measures. Since the main problem seems to excessive heat build why not take measures to cool that area? Not as complicated as it sounds. On the underside of my vanagon snaking up to the starter is a flexible clothes dryer duct. You know the kind you find in hardware stores that look like large white slinkies? These were designed to allow the heat from a clothes dryer to be vented to the outside; they also make great cooling devices. I use them on both sides to force cool air up towards the secondary oil cooler (above the tranny) when the van is in motion. This demands less of the fan but it also (I'm surmising here) keeps the whole starter area cool while at speed. If you think this looks silly, the only noticeable part (and you have to look for it) is where the opening emerges just in front of the suspension. It DID look very odd when I had large air scoops attached to both openings, but I found these were not needed. For those not electrically inclined or with only five dollars in their pocket, four feet of duct may be the answer in solving their hot start problems.
DC
---------------------------------------------------------------------- David Carment School of International Affairs Carleton University Ottawa, Ontario K1S 5B6 voice - (613) 788-2600-6662 fax - (613) 788-2889 Email address: dcarment@ccs.carleton.ca ----------------------------------------------------------------------
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