Does wigging the key/ignition switch get you a start? If not, then the
problem is likely to be elsewhere. I always start with cleaning the
connections at the battery terminals, if that fails, I go on to connection
at the starter, then to the body grounds at battery and tranny. The starter
needs a *lot* of current, and at 12 volts it takes only a *tiny* bit of
resistance to limit that. Usually built-up corrosion at the battery
terminals is enough.

Does it always start when cold, but get iffy when hot? This is a common
fried-starter condition. Sometimes you can overcome the temporarily by
tapping the starter with a broom handle and trying again... but be prepared
to drop the starter and possibly replace it.

Some folks have reported success by taking the solenoid (attached to the
starter) apart and cleaning it, others have added a bypass relay (usually
using a standalone Ford solenoid) to keep the main solenoid current from
making the round trip through the ignition switch. See the archives for
details.

Good luck,

Tim

At 01:57 PM 7/5/2005 -0400, you wrote:
>Hi all:
>
>1987 - Vanagon Syncro
>
>Occasionally when I turn the ignition switch to start up, I get all the
>dash lights, etc. but no ignition at the starter.  I don't hear any sounds
>whatsoever.  I did notice a very momentary delay some month or so ago, but
>now the symptoms are becoming chronic.
>
>I've had this problem addressed earlier by replacing the ignition switch,
>but the problem is back.  Without fail, if I wait a while, could be
>seconds, minutes, or hours, the car will start pretty as you please.
>
>If I don't have any time to waste, it will push start quite easily.
>
>thanks!
>
>Eric (Colorado)
>
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