When you stay "stops running" does it cut off suddenly, or does it act
like it runs out of gas?

There are several things you should check in any old vehicle,
especially a Vanagon.

1.  Fuel lines - go ahead and replace them now or buy a really good
insurance policy.  Fuel lines can look good from a distance, but still
leak and cause a fire.
2.  Fuel filter - old one could be clogged.
3. Drain tank, check for crud, put in fresh gas.
4. Clean all electrical connectors.  ECU plug?  AFM plug?  Are they loose?
5.  Clean all grounds.
6.  Replace spark plug wires, rotor, rotor button, spark plugs. Corrosion?
7.  Check fuse box and fuses.
8.  Check all vacuum lines.

I think that is a good start.  Others may have additional suggestions.

2008/10/12 ila gandy <ila_dale@mac.com>:
> Hello,
>
> I am new to the site and have a question about my "84 westy.  I bought
> it about year ago after it had been sitting for 6 years. I changed all
> the fluids,and  brakes. My problem is: when i am driving sometimes the
> engine just stops running. What i have been doing is to turn the key
> off/on and the engines starts running. I did change the ignition
> switch, but it did not keep.
> Does anyone have any ideas for me to try?
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ila
>
> "84 Westy
>

--
Chris S.
Disclaimer: "Death and serious injury may occur"