My first thought is really worn bushing in clutch housing but I'd
check the neg. strap to frame, clean the battery clamps/posts first.

I'll be corrected if my theory is wrong, but even if you see the same
voltage at starter and battery, when the starter is engaged, it draws
a lot of current. A poor negative connection to frame would inhibit
flow of current to starter.

Neil.

On Fri, Apr 13, 2012 at 3:44 PM, Ken Olsen <648.ken@gmail.com> wrote:
> I'm pretty baffled. My 85' Westfalia waterboxer has been turning over
> slowly since I bought it several years ago, but it has finally got to the
> point of stranding me. It is behaving like a low battery, but I think I
> have ruled that out.
>
> Symptoms:
> Turns over very slowly, sometimes stopping (or catching?)
> Runs fine when started.
> Battery voltage looks good. Jumping doesn't help.
> Voltage at starter matches battery.
> Turns over slowly with:
> � �- spark plugs removed.
> � �- fresh battery jumpered directly to starter.
> � �- WITH NEW STARTER INSTALLED!
>
> What am I missing?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ken in Oregon.

-- 
Neil n

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