Date:         Thu, 27 Mar 1997 15:45:58 -0800
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         williams@mtest.teradyne.com (Robert Williams)
Subject:      Re: starter problems

Hi Rick,

  I had a similar starter problem with my 85 Westy, but my problem 
was when it was cold. Sometimes when I worked late and was going 
home the engine would not start. Sometimes turning the key ON and 
OFF several times would start it, other times I push started the van.
  I finally had enough of that and took the starter apart to see what 
the problem was. I found that the lubrication on the starter solenoid 
was sticking. So when I turned the key, the solenoid did not pull all 
the way in and close the starter motor contacts. I wiped off the 
factory grease and gave it a new light coating of Moly grease and put 
it back together. I have not had the problem since. You might try 
this before replacing the starter and solenoid. It has been awhile 
now, but I think I removed the starter before I pulled the solenoid.

Bob

> rfergus@richmond.infi.net wrote:
> Hi,
> My 85 Westie would not start after a three-four hour drive on the
> interstate...this had happened before around town but was cured with a
> new battery. After about fifteen minutes it started...then it happened
> again about an hour later and would not start at all until I jumped it
> forty five minutes later....the additional voltage must have helped
[cut]
> use at 70-75 mph. Any other suggestions? Thanks for any advice...I
> must do something...its no fun being stranded... 
> Rick