Start with checking the alternator. Most likely worn brushes. Worn brushes
can prevent the warning light from turning on and no charging taking
place.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Josh Ziady
Sent: Saturday, July 28, 2007 5:19 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Stalling, gauges slowing go out, then van dies

Hi folks. My 87 vanagon exhibited these strange series of symptoms:

1. In the morning, on the start a long highway drive: o2 light and bat.
charge light go on, then go out five minutes later (after brief freak out)
2. 10 hours later: lights come on again, van loses power and stalls.
Starts
again, idles briefly, then dies (several times)
3. 15 minutes later: van starts up again, lights still on (flickering),
but
van runs (albeit weakly)
4. 2 hours later: temp gauge goes out
5. 15 minutes later: fuel gauge goes out
6. 15 minutes later: switch on high beams, hear a muffled thump, engine
dies
and won't start again
7. AAA arives, tows us to home

What the heck is going on?

Josh
87 Syncro
"Little Triceratops"