My '88 GL started that very same scenario. It was the starter.
Replaced it, it starts fine now.

John

John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com

On 7/11/2011 12:30 PM, John Reynolds wrote:
> I replaced my ignition switch last year after having a slight hot start problem, but mainly as preventive maintenance.
> Seemed so-so at first, but this year the problem has gottem worst; I figured "crummy replacement switch", so I replaced it again, but the problem remains.
>
> I thought it might have been just a low battery due to lack of use, but on a hot re-start, typcially the engine just barely seems to crank over and then catch.  But here's the kicker, one time on a cold start,   I turend the key and nothing but idiot lights, then I retried and it fired right up.  Possibly not related, possibly I just did not turn the key all the way as I was hurriyng to leave a camp-ground and follow friends - I am not sure.  The cold re-start problem only happened once, although it seems that the engine does not turn over as fast as it should, even cold.
>
> I've order a hot start relay kit, but should I focus on now?  I'll look and clean the starter contacts and chassis grounds.
> Also, I found an old post by Zoltan than mention starter brushes relative to this problem.
>
> Van is an 86 Wolfsburg Westfalia "weekender" camper with factory 2-battery set-up, but I only have one battery installed right now (I do have a 2nd battery not presently installed)
>   4-speed, no AC or power optiones except mirrors.
>
> John
> LiMBO
>
>