Hi Jay,
I have recently been having a similar problem on my '87.  Interestingly,
before the problem started, the dealership had performed a recall and
replaced the Idle Sabilizer and the ECU.  We are working together to find
out what is causing the problem on mine.  I'm going to look at the idle
stabilizer as I know that they can have problems.  Only happens on mine
after extended high speed travel.  With low load on the engine (down hill,
etc) the engine cuts out.  More throttle brings it back but then you are
accelerating and you can only do that for so long.
Before you get too bogged down in chasing ghosts, try removing and
reconnecting the connectors at 1) the air box, 2) the idle stabilizer, and
3) the ECU.
Good luck
Ill mention the fix when I find it
Mark Rokus
'87 Syncro (wifie's)
'87 Syncro Westy: Mine :-)
'81 Westy
'82 Diesel Rabbit
'72 Karmann Ghia

> > I've been experiencing an intermittent problem with my van. Sometimes if
I
> let off pressure on the accelerator while driving and then apply more
> pressure it feels as if the engine is isn't getting fuel (or an incorrect
> fuel/air mixture, or something).  The result is that the engine stutters
> and barely runs until I either let off on the pedal again and apply
> pressure very slowy.  On one occasion I when this was happening I stopped
> at the next exit and the van stopped and took quite a while to get started
> again.  Like I said, this happens randomly...maybe once/month (and I drive
> around 2000miles/month), almost always while I'm on a highway.  And it
> always goes away on its own.
> --Jay
> 1990 Vanagon GL "Deep Blue"
> Portland, Oregon
>