I just learned that there is a "hot start relay" fix that is supposed
to address certain issues (typically, the van will turn over fine
when cold but not when hot).   My van is exhibiting this symptom,
heading it to the shop on thursday for a fix.

This is not the question you asked, but I'm mentioning this because
due to the intermittent nature of this problem, I was chasing
gremlins (e.g. I kept thinking my battery was dead or dying).

See http://www.wolfsburgwest.com/wired/wired_03_01/wired_03_01.htm
for info about various starting problems.

On Oct 31, 2005, at 11:19 AM, ScotiaWesty wrote:

> Hey List:
>
> I'm starting to get a bit suspicious about my electrical system.  Do
> Vanagon's eat up batteries faster than other vehicles?  I put a new
> battery
> in the van this spring - proper type  MT 41 Interstate.  Went to
> take the
> family for a drive today and the van would not turn over.  I hate this
> because it also frigs up the VW stereo where you've got to put the
> code back
> in, etc.
>
> Anyhow, admittedly, the van does not get much driving time - about
> once or
> twice a month.  But I cannot see why a brand new battery would be
> sucked dry
> so fast.  Is it just not being used enough?  Is my clock sucking
> down the
> battery that much?
>
> I also want to know about the starter.  My van has always hesitated
> for a
> fraction of a second when turning over unless the battery is
> charged up
> 110%.  Is this called a flat spot on the starter?  The hesitation
> of course
> gets more pronounced as the battery winds down and I think the
> combination
> makes the van even harder to start with a battery less than 100%.
> As an
> aside, we really don't put any domestic load on this battery.
>
> OK.  I am sifting through the archive on this but your thoughts
> would be
> most appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Dan
>
> 1986 Westy
> Colorado