Guys,

Replacement larger ( to use at D23 position ) Molex connector is on order.

SO, I did go ahead and clean up the burned D15 connector though. I took
a small wire brush to it , then used a very small dremel tool bit to
clean out the connector. It cleaned up pretty nice. Then sprayed some
contact cleaner and I re-connected.

I NOW have 12V at the coil #15 connector with Ignition ON  -and engine
runs !

Obviously this is a temporary step as I plan to use the D23 position
with a new connector.

It seems like, as this is apparently a more and more common issue, that
folks should pull, and inspect their D15 pin and at least clean it.  (
as Mark Indicates )
Given that this can, and does, leave you stranded IF it fails ( or gives
you intermittent behavior ), it is a simple step to do.

-john

On 3/14/15 4:12 PM, mark drillock wrote:
> That is a bit of a gouge. The VW list is about $14. Dealers set their
> own markups it seems. Let us know if that part number works well.
>
> For the archives, the Vanagon 86-91 fuse/relay panel was used in many
> other VWs. In Vanagons they used the small D15 for the same job they
> used larger D23 for in other VW cars. In Vanagons the smaller pin tends
> to burn out over the years. D15 and D23 are hooked together inside of
> the panel. If small D15 burns out you can put a large pin in D23, splice
> the black wire from D15 over to the new pin in D23. Then you have
> repaired the burned connection and in a way that should last the life of
> the vehicle.
>
> When pin D15 burns out the van can start to sometimes cutout while
> driving, or completely die and not restart, or anything in between. Once
> I learned about this problem I started checking vans at the junkyard for
> a burned out pin D15. It was a common occurrence in the junked vans I
> checked. I wonder if there is a connection?
>
> Mark
>
> John Goubeaux wrote:
>> Thanks,
>>
>> VW dealer here in my town can get a   "000 979 211E"   ( they say the E
>> is for improved - but @ 19.95 I say more likely E xpensive )
>>
>> I ordered one, AND as you said, it IS TWO connectors attached with a
>> wire, which can be cut to use on the panel.
>>
>> -john
>>
>>
>>
>>