hi David and Dean...

the lost of ground at the thermostat housing is still a mystery to me. My
other 2 syncros doesn't have that problem and it doesn't mean they won't..
a lesson learn as for any electrical problem on our old vans.. *first
chasing the ground before doing anything*. This is my first electrical
problem to solve besides changing light bulbs, ignition switch and
headlight switch as preventive service..

David, I would think there's no ground between the thermostat housing and
the engine... if it's so then I will add a flat braided copper ground to
the housing...

thanks again

dan