Seems like classic failing starter symptoms.

Usually the cause is worn brushes.

Tom
www.towercooler.com

Sent from my Verizon Wireless Phone

-----Original Message-----
From: C. Chris <titantic01@AOL.COM>
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2010 1:51 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Subject: Starter going??

 This was the first colder day we have had so far and when I went to
start my van ('87 2/automatic) I could hear the pump come on while the
key was in the start position but, the starter would do nothing. I kept
shutting off the key and back on and finally the starter came on and the
van started.

I am thinking it is the starter solenoid or the bendix. the starter has
done this a few time in warm weather but not often.

Once it got started, the starter worked fine the rest of the day.

Help here very much appreciated.

Chris