Annie ... just my $0.02 on this, but from some of my experiences with
alternators/starters/batteries .... and very old, long Vanagon wiring.

The distance/path this signal has to travel once the key is turned is
a long way. The age of the wiring in our vehicles, and age of the
grounds, and size of these wires all CAN contribute to poor performance,
especially under "stressful" conditions.

I replaced the wiring running from the battery to the alternator, same
with the starter, and used larger wires, I think 6 or 8 gauge (don't remember
what OE/stock is), and that has made a very big difference. I improved the
charging by the alternator, by copying a van-friend and running a 4 gauge
(a cannibalized jumper cable wire) from the + post on the alternator to the
battery ... but I have a camper so this run goes to a Sure Power Battery
Separator, which charges BOTH main and aux. batteries. Having "fresh"
connectors on these wires is also a big help. Crimped is good, soldered
is a little better.

Replacing/improving your ground points, and making them as close to
the source of your electrical use, is a good thing to do as well. Easy,
inexpensive, and will always be of benefit.

bob
On Feb 28, 2011, at 1:48 PM, Annie wrote:

> It's a new battery. Well, a year ago. It was put in January 2010. The
> connections are solid as far as I can tell, with no corrosion or anything.
> 
> As far as I know, it's not a deep cycle battery. Maybe time for one? I don't
> know. It's just really frustrating. And it ONLY does this in cold weather.
> 
> *Annie Anderson* Blogger, Designer, Thinker & Mom
> web: annieandersonblog.com email: lsandrsn@gmail.com
> twitter: silverlunace <http://twitter.com/silverlunace> facebook:
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> *Blazin' a trail where there is no path.*
>