Two years ago our '88 did the same thing, only the idle went even higher,
almost 5000 rpm. This started in cold weather, just like now.  Turned out
that it was the Idle Stab. Cont. Unit behind the right taillight.  After
replacing it, I opened it up and sure enough found a bunch of toasted
semi-conductors.  Pretty safe bet that's where your problem is.

Gary
----- Original Message -----
From: "Gambill, Billy G" <Bill.Gambill@MED.VA.GOV>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, January 23, 2001 6:48 PM
Subject: 87 Idle Stabilizer Problem

> My 87 Vanagon GL Camper normally idles at 1000 RPMs but for some unknown
> reason,
> it now races to 4000 RPMs at idle. After reviewing the manual, I suspect
it
> may be the
> Idle Stabilizer Valve or Idle Stabilizer Control Unit (behind the right
rear
> taillight).
> I've checked the electrical current continuity of the Stabilizer Valve and
> it seems OK.
> Both of these parts are expensive to replace so I would like to be sure
that
> the part I buy
> will correct the problem. Anybody have an experience like this?
>
> Thanks in Advance
> Billy
>
> 56 Type I Standard
> 67 Type II Camper
> 76 & 79 Type I Convert
> 87 Vanagon Camper
>