seems like the temp sensor for the ecu would be a good part and input to
check, plus connections to it.

if it's not running half way up the gauge.........
one of my firm rules is 'fix what you know is broken' ................I'd
get it running up to temp for sure, just to start with.
I can't emphasize the importance of that enough.  It's gotta be running at
at least 175 digress F.    195 is preferred for winter......
usually that is just to the right of the LED in the temp gauge.  180 is the
'par norm' ..........
but it's gotta be running up to temp.

I don't see any indication of which of the two wateboxer engines and systems
you are working with here,. 1.9 or 2.1

----- Original Message -----
From: "Mark A Kippert" <vanagon@KIPPERT.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, January 12, 2009 7:52 AM
Subject: Running rough, dies as temp gauge starts to register

>I thought I had my problem solved after cleaning all my grounds and
> repairing some broken wires. I also replaced plugs cap and rotor. It
> was sporadic prior to the steps above then it cleared up. Now it's
> continuous.
>
> As soon as the temperature gauge starts to register the van starts to
> run rough, quickly looses power, then dies. I found that if I switch
> the key off, then right back on it will run fine for about 30 seconds
> then it starts over. As soon as I feel it running rough again, I turn
> the key off/on quickly and get another 30 seconds.
>
> It doesn't matter if I'm driving along or idling at a stop.
>
> Since I got the van I've noticed that it takes a good 10-15 minutes
> (or longer) to warm up. When warmed up, it's barely outside the "white
> zone" on the gauge. I had planned to replace the thermostat, but can't
> imagine this is the cause of the problem.
>
> It sounds like ECU is getting bad info from a sensor. Does this sound
> likely, and if so, what should I consider first.
>
> I did try searching the database but it timed out.
>
> Thanks for any suggestions as to where to start.
>
> -Mark K