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Subject:Intermittant starting problem with 1986 Vanagon GL
From:Christine H. Stinson
Date:Sat, 10 Aug 2002 11:11:22 -0400

We have a 1986 Vanagon GL that ususally starts but commonly
(once/twice per week) doesn't start.

The only pattern I notice is that it seems to have something to do
with moisture/condensation.  The evidence for that is...  After a
heavy rainstorm, it usually doesn't start (even if the Vanagon was
just sitting parked during the storm).  On a cool morning after a
hot, humid day, it often doesn't start (50/50).

One friend suggested spraying WD-40 into the distributor when it
doesn't start.  Sometimes, but not reliably, the Vanagon will start
an hour after that.  Otherwise, it seems to take 6-24 hours of "down
time" for the Vanagon to start again.

I would appreciate any suggestions for diagnostic tests to run, parts
to replace that aren't terribly expensive, etc.

Thank you!

Christine
Earlysville, Virginia 22936

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