I encountered a similiar starting problem.  Three possible reasons. 1) Bad
gas 2) Bad fuel pump  3) Choke need to be readjusted.  Good luck.

----------
> From: Kirk Bennett (by way of Ron Lussier <coyote@likeminds.com>)
<bennett.kirk@MCLEODUSA.NET>
> To: Vanagon@GERRY.SDSC.EDU
> Subject: vanagon blues
> Date: Tuesday, December 02, 1997 9:11 AM
>
> hello,
> the web came to the rescue as I pondered giving up my 88 wolfsburg gl
> vanagon.  it has been a fantastic vehicle - until - about 2 months ago.
> Started dying on me unexpectedly.  Would start back up again but has
> progressively gotten worse.  Finally, wouldn't start at all.  Took to
> local mechanic (imports - some knowledge of vanagons - not a lot of
> people aware of them out here in midwest) and after several hundred
> dollars still can't precisely locate the problem.  help.
> Obviously electrical but I need to find person or troubleshooting guide
> to narrow down possibilities.  Mechanic thinks it's the computer
> (decides once ina while not send signal to relays after receiving it
> from flow meter.  therefore, intermittent fuel pump activity (w/new
> pump).  still can't figure out why the tach needle and buzzing sounds
> when ignition is only in the on position and van hasn't been started.
> dosen't happen every time but am starting top think 'ol blue' is
> possessed!
>
> please refer me or if possible, help me sort this thing out before I
> give 'er up.
> thanks
>
> kirker34
>
> bennett.kirk@mcleodusa.net