The 200K alone indicates time for a change or at least a complete
disassembly, cleaning and inspection. A bad solenoid , worn brushes or a
dead winding can cause the issues you describe.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Finn Runyon
Sent: Friday, June 29, 2012 5:56 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Starter issues

I recently pulled the starter on my 87 and cleaned all the contacts.  For a
short time I had no starting issues, but I  once again have an unresponsive
starter.  I turn the ignition, I hear the fuel pump prime, but no starter.
I cycle the key sometimes 2-3, but often much more before the starter kicks
in.  I am unsure if the issue is with the starter solenoid, or the positive
cable itself.  This bus spent all of its life up until last July in NJ, so I
do have a fair bit of corrosion everywhere.  The starter isn't cheap so I
hesitate to simply replace it, but it is original to the bus with 200k on
the clock.
Best,
Finn Runyon
87 Westy Pook
89 Westy Roo