Well then, you've found one problem. As I understand it, this is a simple
reg., operated by vaccum effect on a diaphram. Bottom line is that there
should be no gasoline on the vaccum side you are sucking on. It needs to
be replaced. I don't know if this is expensive, as I have never had a
problem with these. Either way, IMO, this is normally not something I
would throw used parts at, though in your case, you're just trying to get
it running and out to the Vanagon pool. I would gladly send you a known
used one, no charge, if that's what you would like to do.
Let me know.