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Subject:Electrical Gurus help needed 88 van.kinda long
From:Vanagon man
Date:Sat, 27 Jul 2002 17:03:55 -0400

This van is a 1988  Automatic...........

I had the problem with turning the key and nothing happenning........I installed a new Bosch starter 4 months ago, so i pulled it and took it to the shop for warranty replacement.........put the new one on, and got about ten starts out of it, no problem.  Then, same thing........if i hit the starter with a mallot and screwdriver (thru the engine bay) and someone is turning the key, it fires right up.

Now, I pulled the harness off the ignition switch and plugged on a new one i had on the shelf......nothing.  I then ran a jumper wire from hot in the ignition switch harness straight to the starter...fired right up.  So, I knew i had a voltage issue with the plug on wire at the starter.  (loaned voltage meter out so did not have) So, I thought time for the Bosch WR-1 relay kit.  I install it, and it fires right up.BUT...the solenoid or starter is still engaged after it starts when i run the relay.  If i jumper the starter from 12v it just starts with no hanging up.  So I tried a different relay, and same result........It is like it is not switching itself off after the starter engages.  

Then I Chase wires from the ignition switch to the fuse box, Spray DeOxit on them, and hook it all up stock.  Turns right over.....a few times that is.  

I pulled it up on ramps to check some other stuff, and I go back in to start it, and nothing. NOTHING.  no LIGHTS, NO POWER AT ALL IN THE FUSEBOX..........NOTHING.    i THEN CHECK THE BATTERY, AND IT HAS 12.5v, and the connections are tight.  

WHAT THE?  This is my wife's main ride, and i need it straight by Monday.

Thanks for any help.

Adam P                              
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