For what it's worth, I've had nothing but bad luck with temp sensors of
this type, they are good for a couple of years in my experience, and
they are my first suspect for any starting/running problem especially if
it seems temperature dependent (ie. hard starting but runs OK when warm,
or starts easily but quits or runs poorly when warm).

I keep spares on hand, they fail so often.  Luckily they are not
expensive.

Allan
--
1991 Vanagon GL

"Ken Wilford" <kenwilfy@COMCAST.NET> said:
> If you want to see if it is the Temp II sensor there is an easy test you
> can do.  Unplug the temp II sensor (blue plug on thermostat housing).
> Then get a short piece of wire or a paper clip and jumper the two prongs
> inside of the plug to each other.  Now start the van.  You may have to
> hold your foot on the gas to keep it running until it warms up but after
> it warms up for a couple of minutes it should run well.  If this fixes
> your problem then it is your Temp II sensor that has gone bad and should
> be replaced.  Darrell Boehler gave me this trick when I was away on a
> vacation one time with no tools or anything.  I got a new sensor from
> the local dealer for around $9 that same day and was back on the road.
> Let me know what you find.
>
> Ken Wilford
> John 3:16
> www.vanagain.com