Thanks for the replies...
Here's the deal:  I couldn't get the pieces parts all back together after
replacing the ignition switch.  I called my friendly VW Mechanic, who
happened to be in his shop today, Saturday, and he gave me the
answer:  DON"T  put the spacer sleeve on before or with the ignition switch
housing.  Make sure to put things back in this order:  Ignition switch
housing, then the wiper/turn signal stalk assembly, THEN the spacer, then
the steering wheel.  AND, make sure to support the steering column from
below  ( I used a couple of small "C" clamps).  Worked like a charm.  Now
the van starts, and I hope the intermittent no start problem is fixed!!

John
90 syncro westfalia, tiico powered
SLC