Sonia Johnson wrote:

> When it rains it pours! I'm getting a crash course in vanagon repair!
>
> The battery is going dead. First time it died, we put a battery charger
> on it. It ran for 2 days, the third day it was dead again. I've cleaned
> the battery terminals. The positive cable looks somewhat corroded. I'm
> going out now to try to test the alternator. That's the only thing I can
> think  of. Any suggestions? It's an 87 watercooled vanagon, manual trans.
>  I'm wondering why when we try to push start it, it doesn't start?
> Thanks,
> Sonia J

If the battery is really seriously dead, there is not enough electrical power
for the ignition, computer, fuel pump, injectors, etc.

Sounds like you may have drain on the battery due to a bad relay, faulty
switch, or poorly insulated wire.  Could be difficult to track down.
  Ideas? Anyone else?

good luck,
Larry A.