Marshall,

When I got my '85 the PO had replaced the original new style cap and wires
with an old style.  When I changed back to the new style I did not have any
problems with the wires being compatible with the coil which also worked fine
with the old style wires.  I don't believe there is any difference in the
coil wire connection at the coil end between the two sets.  If your problems
can't be traced to the coil don't replace it.

Chuck
'85 Wolfsburg Westy - 'Roland the Road Buffalo'

In a message dated 3/19/2002 9:58:50 AM Central Standard Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

> Date:    Mon, 18 Mar 2002 23:55:14 -0600
> From:    Marshall <mjruskin@SHAW.CA>
> Subject: How a simple replacement of cap,
>          rotor and plug wires becomes a challenge
>
> Hi Volks:
>
> Welcome to my world of pain and frustration:
>
> There are two coils recommended for the 84, depending on the VIN. Can I use
> either one if I change the cap and wires to complement it - or will there
> be
> a problem somehow with other existing components?
>
> Here's the background:
>
> Yesterday I went to Canadian Tire, and bought a distributor cap (cap) and
> rotor.
>
> Installation of said items did not remedy my bucking/stalling/no-start
> issues for more than 10 minutes.
>
> The list suggested I get new plug wires, and I agreed, since mine are 18
> Years old, and it's prolly time anyways...
>
> So, I went to NAPA today - and I bought a proper set (only one kind
> available - and it seems like a newer style than mine) - and I got them to
> bring out a couple brands/models/styles of proper caps/rotors too...
>
> Two styles of cap for the 84! The one I bought from CDN tire was the wrong
> one for the new wires, so I bought the proper cap too. Went back to
> work.....
>
> Oh no! Now I think I need to get a new coil too, because the new wire style
> likely won't fit my existing coil! (At least, I doubt it.)
>
> Can I use the new coil for the 84 that fits my wires? Or will something
> "blow up"? ;>)
>
> Marshall Ruskin
>