Date:         Fri, 6 Aug 1999 09:50:21 -0800
Reply-To:     Brian Walch <bwalch@RESDAT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Brian Walch <bwalch@RESDAT.COM>
Subject:      Engine cutting out/stumbling problem
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Alright! Let me first say it is a calming presence to have the list back up!
Thank you very much to the individuals dedicating time and resources to keep
this operational.

As for my Vanagon...I have an '85 Westfalia, manual 4-speed, about 95K
miles. According to the records of the PO, the throttle valve was replaced
in May of 99 as a result of the engine missing or cutting out.

About a month ago I was coming home and had been driving about 2 hours at
highway speed (65mph) when the van stumbled a coupe times, once rather
significantly and once or twice more subtly. From that time on, it happened
a few more times sporadically, and even in 3rd gear. Finally, the other day
I was pulling out in from work and it threw a more serious fit. The engine
actually will cut out and die.

I took it back to the mechanic that did the original throttle valve
replacement. He said that the valve was way out of adjustment and that
somebody must of readjusted it - which I don't think so. No work has been
done on it since he worked on it.

Anyway, he re-adjusted the valve and the van seemed to run fine. But, no,
the problem still seems to be there. Also, both times the van has thrown a
fit the van has been cold, and the fuel has been low (not super low, maybe
3/8ths of a tank).

Questions:
-       Any ideas about what would cause the stumbling or engine cutting out
randomly?
-       Could the fuel be bad and cause that more significant fits?
-       How does the throttle valve get out of adjustment by itself?

I am pretty green about VWs and auto repair, but want to learn. I appreciate
any help or guidance given.

Thanks.

Brian
'85 Westy