Arthur Anderson wrote:
>
> I"m afraid I've got a wiring harness question(s). In short, what are the
> symptoms that I should look for? "intermittant power loss" and running
> rich seem to be the big symptoms, which I think I can identify with, so
> I'm looking into the wiring harness upgrade (specifically, the one from
> busdepot).
>     The archives also mention a very inexpensive capacitor fix for the
> problem. Could someone give me more info about the symptoms and fixes?
>
> Arthur Anderson
> 85 Weekender
> Portland, Maine

What is often called "vanagon syndrome" usually occurs after an hour or
so at steady high speed.  The effect causing an intermittent partial
loss of power similar to a restricted fuel filter.  It usually is cured
temporarily by turning the ignition off and back on again to reboot the
ECU.
  The VW service bulletin says that a "resonance" occurs in the wiper
arm of the AFM disrupting the signal to the ECU, causing it to go into a
low power mode.
  The "capacitor fix" involves soldering about 20 or 30 MFD across two
of the pins of the AFM connector ( + to pin 2, - to pin 4 ).  Tantalum
capacitors are recommended for their durability; a voltage rating of 20
or more is best.  I believe that some volks have installed it inside the
AFM, although most hide it inside the boot of the connector, like I did.

  I have not heard of this matter being related to running rich.

good luck,
Larry A.