I might be having the same woes on my 90 Carat.  Sometimes, when I turn the
key, nothing happens.  If I do it repeatedly, it will start on the third try
or so.  If I just hold the key in the start position for 2-4 seconds, it
sometimes starts.  I put a voltmeter in the cigarette lighter to observe a
voltage drop when the key is engaged to and being held in the start
position.  I presume this is from the solenoid, and I presume this rules out
the ignition switch which has already been replaced once.  The battery is
fine.

Sound like a starter to you?  Can they be replaced without dropping the
engine or transmission?  How much $$$?

Thanks,
Michael

----- Original Message -----
From: "James Shinosky" <Socabeasty@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, November 06, 2002 9:57 PM
Subject: starter woe...

>         Hi Everybody... My 88 Vanagon starter is becoming moody lately
with
> cool weather. One out of 10 times I put my key in, it wouldn't start. I
had
> to leave my van alone for 30 minutes before it finally starts... I
installed
> the bypass starter solenoid next to the starter two years ago and didnt
have
> any problem till recently. I tried wiggling the key in the ignition switch
> and the auto tranny selector lever and no luck. Does it mean a new starter
is
> needed? Any input is appreciated. Thanks.
>
> Jim
> W88kender
> Los Angeles