In addition to the suggested points below. have the cells tested. My
last two batteries had cell failures. The develop an internal short to
ground, and will not hold a charge.

Good luck,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver in Birmingham

Larry Alofs wrote:
>
> 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.