Just thought I would drop a line to let the List know how I am making
out with my 83 diesel Vanagon project van.  After trying all of the
suggestions that you folks gave me to get the beast to start I broke
down and bought a diesel compression tester (I don't work on diesels
every day so didn't have one).  I would have done this sooner but I had
been assured by the previous owner that the motor was from a good
running car, etc.  Well the test came back 1. 320, 2. 450 3. 450 4.
320.  I don't have the Bentley in front of me but I believe the low
limit for the diesel compression is around 375 psi.  So this motor is
beat.  I thought it was a fuel problem when the van would only pop on
two cylinders but I guess it was just low compression.

I went out at bought a diesel rabbit from a friend of mine for $500.  I
had actually fixed this car all up for his son about a year ago with new
timing belt, water pump, head gasket, etc.  Then the son decided he
didn't like to drive it and it has been sitting ever since.  They were
glad to just get it out of the yard and I was glad to get a known good
running engine.  Hopefully now I can get this van back on the road and
ready to roll.

Thanks for all of your help and advice on this situation.  It was most
appreciated.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com