Sounds like the ignition switch is at fault. Or the connector.
Regardless, AFAIK, ign. switches are a common problem in terms of wear
and tear.

Personally I'd replace it ASAP and get rid of the bypass. If it turns
out not be the switch, at least you have a spare. Pretty sure they
aren't too much money. I got one from CI last year at $15.55 Cnd.

Cheers,

Neil.

On 10/15/07, Mervyn Readman <themervino@cs.com> wrote:
> It started out with the wipers, headlights, heater fans and a few other
> odds and ends not working. I traced it to the ignition. There is power to it
> but upon turning the key there is no power coming out of the wire that feeds
> the above items. All the other wires coming from the ignition are working. I
> fiddled with the key but it is a no go. I am guessing the only cure is a new
> ignition switch. Anyone have any thoughts. I replaced the ignition a few
> years back for some other reason so I was surprised to see it go out so
> soon. In the meantime I have run a wire from the positive feed to the wire
> feed going to lights etc. bypassing the ignition making sure to disconnect
> when shutting off the van. Anyone see this as a bad think for the very short
> term. Thanks Merv.
>

--
Neil Nicholson. 1981 Air Cooled Westfalia -
"Jaco"  (Bustorius)

http://web.mac.com/tubaneil

Please send fav Vanagon/Westfalia links to me at:
musomuso1963@hotmail.com