Get a compression test before proceeding further. That gives you a
baseline...tells about condition of rings, and valves. If pressures are
good, then you most likely have some sort of electrical difficulty with
the engine controls or other external parts...that can be tracked down
and fixed rather easily. But if the problem is INSIDE the engine
....back off or negotiate a sweeter deal.

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Haavard Karlsen wrote:
>
> Hi
>
> I'm new to this list, and not an experienced car mechanic. I'm about to
> buy a 1985 model Vanagon/Transporter. The cosmetic condition is
> excellent, and the odometer shows 138 000 km, but I'm slightly sceptical
> concerning the motor.
> It runs nicely when idling, no ticking, just quietly puffing along. But when
> driving the thing, it feels as if the motor does'nt respond correctly to the
> use of the gas pedal, and the motor seems rather powerless in 3rd and
> 4th gear, especially when climbing a little.
> Any suggestions as to what this implies?
> Lots of thanks in advance!
>
> Haavard Karlsen