TJ,

I know this is a repeat, but this seems like a pretty good checklist:
Vanagon Running Problems
http://www.van-cafe.com/home/van/page_9/vanagon_running_problems.html

For example it mentions a plugged CAT, vacuum leaks, and finally ends with
bad ECU.  I had serious running problems about a year ago, couldn't figure
it out, finally brought it to a shop and they found the problem was a bad
ECU.

Roland

On Wed, Sep 23, 2009 at 9:03 AM, TJ Hemrick <x53gunner@gmail.com> wrote:

> All, I'm seriously frustrated with the old van.  I put 10 gallons of fresh
> gas in the tank.  Check the fuel pump for the "noise" when the key is first
> turned--Check.  Check for fuel coming out the filter when the starter is
> cranked--Check.  Check for fuel in the injection lines when the starter is
> cranked--Check.  Check for spark--Check.  Spray Starter fluid in the air
> cleaner housing and crank engine--Check.  Crank starter by itself (minus
> starting fluid)--FAIL.  WTF?  I have spark, fuel, power, and the old boat
> won't go on it's own.  I put starting fluid in and it runs like a top.  I'm
> getting fuel at the FI lines.  I don't have 4 simultaneous injector
> failures.  I've even swapped computers, AFM, & the fuel pump.  I have new
> plugs, cap, rotor, and wires.  Oh, I do have the O2 sensor completely
> unhooked (Some jerk stole it, yes, stole it).  Man, I hate this...
>
> TJ
> 87 Syncro
> 2.1 WBX
>