Hello all,

I'm helping a local Vanagon owner with a no start issue. We are talking
about a 1985 GL with a 1.9 and manual transmission. She had it with a local
mechanic for 6 months and they couldn't fix the problem.  It's been awhile
since I worked on a VW engine as my I have a Subie, so I'm seeking guidance
from y'all.

Things completed by the shop over the past months:

Replace the ECU
Replace the Coil

The starter looks brand new.  The engine cranks but doesn't fire. I hear
the fuel pump.  I have not checked for pressure yet, I will next visit.  I
found a couple odd things when looking it over.  The distributor was loose,
as I could twist with ease.  Also, the temp 2 sensor wiring connector/plug
is nowhere to be found (see photo).  It looks like the someone did some
work on the ground (see photo).

My questions are:
Would a loose distributor cause a no start condition?
Could the missing plug to the temp 2 sensor cause a no start condition?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/w99oftQFMP2tqpxv9

Any help and guidance would be much appreciated.

Jimmy
Wilmington, NC