I had this same problem with my SAAB several years ago.  My brother-in-law
told me how to test the distributor when it quit, I wish I could remember
what I did, but I used to test light when the car stopped.  If you need me
to, I'll give him a call and ask (no email yet).  Anyway $200.00 for a new
distributor and it's been running for the last 170,000 miles.

Charles Michaux
'91 Westy (37K)
'88 SAAB 9000T (277K)

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> From: Rudy Bardales <rudyb@sonic.net>
> To: Multiple recipients of list <vanagon@lenti.med.umn.edu>
> Subject: What next? ... GREMLINS STILL OCCUPY 80 CA VANAGON
> Date: Thursday, January 30, 1997 4:07 PM
> 
>          My little problem continues... My van still shuts off after a
> short time, usually less than 45 mins. It shuts off like I've turned the
> key off-no misfires, sputters nothing it just shuts down, the alternator
> lights doesn't even come on till the van comes to a complete stop.
>         I've replaced most of the ignition components too many to list.
> recently I finally replaced the fuel filter and it ran great (as usuall)
> but after 45 miles it shut down again. BTW the filter was really clogged,
> Ithink I'll replace it again. As always it started up after 1 hour
> intermission.
>         This weekend I'm going to remove the distributor and take a look
at
> the hall control unit wire that reside in the black plastic elbow and
check
> them out. I'm running out of ideas. since I've taken it to two vw
shops(one
> being the dealer! @#$%^%$##@@!) and have gotten very different diagnosis.
>         Are there any ideas ie. additional ground wires? exorcism etc.
> All and any are appreciated.
> Rudy B. Santa Rosa, CA
>