A new switch is cheap and you can connect it to the wiring without even
installing it. Use a flat screwdriver to operate it. If this fixes your
troubles, install it properly. If it doesn't help, then install a
starter relay in the engine compartment. I like the relay setup that Jay
sells.

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=1066289

Mark

James Felder wrote:
> Lately, my 83 diesel Westy has become hard to start in the sense that the key,when turned to start, does nothing. I can try it a couple of times and sometimes that works. Other times I may have to turn the steering wheel half a turn before it will start.
>
> Of course turning the wheel and having it start is circumstantial; would it have started if I had not turned the wheel?
>
>  From the symptoms I am wondering if anyone can say whether it is the switch or the lock? Or other?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Jim
>