You can spray WD-40 (or silicone spray works very well too, even better
maybe) on the distributor and sparkplug wires. This is a widely used trick
especially for off roaders. However, I suspect that either (1) your dist cap is
cracked, or (2) your sparkplug wires are trashed. Or both.
   How long has it been since you replaced both of the above? They don't last
forever, and, in fact, it's one of the first things I do when buying a used
vehicle besides changing the oil and filter.

On Sat, Aug 10, 2002 at 11:11:22AM -0400, Christine H. Stinson wrote:
> 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

--
Harmon Seaver
CyberShamanix
http://www.cybershamanix.com