Bretts,
An engine that does not reach normal operating temperature will run richer
than normal.
Ken Lewis
http://neksiwel.20m.com/
in statu viae
----- Original Message -----
From: "C B" <cunegonde.van.westfalia@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, May 27, 2010 4:11 PM
Subject: [VANAGON] Diagnosing rich running 1.9l WBX

> Issue:
> Cunegonde seems to be starting, idling, and running fairly normally...
> except a sudden drop from 18-21 MPG to 10 MPG. Running out of gas
> repeatedly at 120 miles or less.
>
> Details:
> She's acting as if she's continually in cold start enrichment mode -
> hot idle sometimes about 200-300rpm higher than usual and no seeking.
> Normal idle is about 800 rpm +/- 100.
> The start sequence/overheat LED doesn't stop blinking some of the time
> - sometimes at cold start for the day, sometimes hot start. But
> sometimes the LED stops blinking in the usual 30 seconds before
> starting. Sometimes it begins blinking while driving, usually with
> temp gauge in low-normal range.
> Very occasionally, the temp gauge goes way up and LED blinks while
> driving, and then returns to normal, whether or not I turn off the
> engine.
> Could it be a malfunctioning temp sender? Which one/where is the (blue
> plastic-bodied) one not on the thermostat housing?
>
> Resources:
> I have the Bentley and a digital multimeter, as well as very full
> range of hand tools, ramps, jacks.
> I only have spare O2 sensor and thermostat with me.
>
> Actions so far:
> I put a tarp under the van while idling to see if there's a fuel line
> leak. (I inspect the lines every few months, no fires for Cunegonde!).
> No observable leak at any engine speed.
> While I am diligently checking every !@#$% connector and wire I can
> find in the engine bay, is there another sender or mechanical unit I
> can check? Maybe the thermostat?
>
> Timeframe:
> I need to have her safely on the road from Seattle to Portland, and
> then Grants Pass OR, by next Wednesday. Thanks for any sugggestions,
> folks.
>
> --
> Bretts
>
> 1983 1.9l WBX Ivory Westfalia "Cunegonde"
>