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Subject:Strange no-start problem
From:Geza Polony
Date:Fri, 22 Dec 2006 17:22:01 -0500

Volks,

Sorry this post is long, but I'd appreciate some help on this one--I'm
clueless. Problem: my '84 1.9 WBX won't start. Yesterday it ran well once
started. It always used to cold-start perfectly, like one revolution, under
any conditions. Quite impressive--almost too good to be true.

4-5 days ago I began messing with the fuel pump/fuel filter and it was
around that time the van began to show more difficulty in starting. I think,
but am not certain,  the problem showed up before the fuel delivery system
work. Progressive worsening until today, I can't get it to start at all.

Replaced fuel filter, cleaned ground at pump, clean hot pump wire/connector.
Fuel pump flow test checks ok. Relay is ok (at least the pump functions when
ignition is on.)

New pressure regulator. Replaced high pressure fuel hoses from regulator to
injector rails. HEET in gas tank a week ago. Lucas gas treatment in gas
three days ago. Techron in gas yesterday.

Recently replaced thermostat; temp II sensor is good. New AFM, all vacuum
hoses checked and clamped.

I pulled one plug after trying to start and it was dry, otherwise normal in
color.

Could I have gotten some crap in the fuel injectors while messing with the
fuel lines? Could this explain no start condition (I'd guess No, as it would
start on at least three cylinders even if one was clogged.)

Also, the plastic connector for the three wires coming out of the
distributor was cracked. Thinking I might have bumped the wires together
when replacing the regulator, I wrapped them back up with electrical tape.

Thanks for any and all advice on this one. My frustration level is on
orange, soon to be red. I HATE it when this van doesn't run! (And love it
when it does!)

Geza

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