Could possibly be a ignition switch. Is the key returning all the way back
to the "run" position after starting?

Joe

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ray Reinhard" <rayreinh@PACBELL.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, December 09, 2000 6:07 PM
Subject: Electrical System Mystery

> I need your help on a weird one.  When I have my engine running, my
> headlights, foglights, radio, windshield wipers and heater fan have
> no power.  Other parts of the electrical system (e.g., parking
> lights, interior lights, dashboard lights, turn signals, emergency
> flashers) work fine.  When I turn the engine off, and turn the key to
> the "accessory" (first click) position, ALL components operate.  It's
> only when I turn the key to the next position (starting the engine)
> that the components noted above "cut out."
> --
> Ray Reinhard
> '86 Westfalia GL
>