Hmm. Try running it in a dark place and look at the engine. Might be the
moisture allowed the plug wires to arc. And I believe once they arc they are
much more likely to continue doing it.

Mike
Marin county

On 4/6/09 9:34 AM, "Michael Sullivan" <sandwichhead@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> First... I have not finished diagnosing this, but wanted to put it out
> there.  I got back from the beach on Sat and ran the van through an
> under-carriage rinse yesterday.  Immediately noticed a loss of power, about
> 40-50%.  If i put it in low(auto) then I eventually get it to run better,
> but as soon as I switch to a higher gear, seems I lose it again.  Left it
> overnite and took it on a 5-6 miles hwy drive to 'dry it out' but still same
> prob.  Before I pull plugs and replace(also cap and rotor) I wanted to ask
> advice.  Possible water in tail pipe? Also noticed temp gauge doesn't read
> middle like usual. This happened right after rinse.  I had previously
> detailed engine last week and all good to beach and back.  TIA
> Michael in San Antonio
> 91GL AT 'Gringo'
> 73 Beetle