In general, the Ignition Module (ICU) on 80-85 models (the one on the
left engine wall) is a sealed unit, so repair of these is extremely
difficult, if at all.  The module on the 86-91 models is integrated
inside the ECU, so there is a remote chance that can be serviced.

The Hall Unit in the distributor (80-85 and 86-91, which both are
different) is another minefield when it comes to a field repair.

I carry a spare of each with me on both my 84s since losing a hall
unit function near Klamath Falls, OR in 1998. If I owned an 86-91, I
would always carry a spare ECU.  But that's just me, based on on a 50+
year habit of carrying critical spares (Cables, etc.,) for my VWs.
You'd be surprised at what I carry for replacement spares in Rear
Seatbox of my Westy.

--
Jim Thompson
84 GL 1.9 "Gloria"
84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
72 411 Station Wagon "Pug"
75 914 1.8 "Nancy"
Full Timing From March 1999 To January 2012
oldvolkshome@gmail.com
http://www.oldvolkshome.com
Find me on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jim-Thompson/100000710343835
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On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 11:37 AM, tinker man <tinkerman007@gmail.com> wrote:
> Just wondering - what electronics do the hall sender and the ignition
> control unit contain?
> I want this info to be better able to diagnose these if necessary
> before I go shopping in case van starting problems, these parts ain't
> cheap!
> Has anyone dismantled them and has posted pictures somewhere or can email them?
> Tnx.