John Bange wrote:

>> I feel that the circuit should have used a relay in the first place as
>>the ignition switch should not have to handle that much current, very
>>similar to the situation with the headlight switch.
>>
>>
>>
>
>Very good point. I hadn't thought of that. Given VW's poor engineering
>choices with the entire headlight circuit, I guess there'd be no reason to
>expect any better of the starting circuit. How many amps does the starter
>solenoid draw initially? A standard 30A automotive relay ought to be plenty,
>eh?
>
>--
>John Bange
>'90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"
>
>
>
As I recall, I've used 30A relays from Radio Shack a couple of times;
once I used a 50A one that I happened to have.
  The coil just needs to be designed for 12V operation.

Larry A.