Problem solved!

Removed cowling under steering wheel, located and unplugged the ignition
switch (behind ignition key) pulls straight off,
used a continuity tester, power present on largest "red" wire,
cleaned the contacts, and plugged it back in... crossed fingers!

Started right up!

I wish all repairs were this easy!!

Jack R.
84 Westy

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jack R.
Sent: Monday, August 23, 2010 10:10 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Starter doesn't turn after replacing weak battery

My 84 Westy with a 2.1L wouldn't start due to a run-down battery.  I charged
it, and started fine.  I made the dream cruise and all was well.

That was, until I went to leave and when I turned the key, it started to
engage but appeared to be too run down to start again.

So two guys gave me a push, and I popped the clutch and I was off.  Put a
charger back on the battery when I got home, and once it showed fully
charged, turned the key and nothing.

I looked at the date on my battery, and seeing it was 11 years old, I
thought "dead cells", so I purchased a new Group 41 Battery from Wally World
for $67 (made by Johnson Controls).

I Installed the brand new battery and turned the key with nothing again!
Starter wouldn't turn!!

So, here are my questions.

1. could I have damaged something electronic by trying to turn it with a
weak battery?

2. what should I do first to diagnose the problem?

3. Is the starter not turning failure related in any way to the weak
battery?

Thanks for the help!

Jack R.

84 Westy Wolfie w/2.1L

N. of Detroit