Greetings!

I'm seeking input on a recurring problem with my '87 Westy.  A few
months ago, I wrote concerning the van's propensity to suddenly lose
power while running.  I took it to the TLM (trusted local
mechanic--specialized in VW's) and one new fuel pump later, the problem
disappeared.

Well, it's back.  I was on my way out of town the other day, and the
same problem reared its ugly head.  Here are the details:

I'll be driving along, the van running fine, when suddenly the engine
will lose power.  It will continue to idle (*very* roughly) at about 500
rpm (normal is around 1100-1200), but will not rev beyond about 800.  It
acts as if it isn't getting adequate fuel.

I'll turn off the key, restart the van, and it will run fine for about
5-10 seconds; revving normally, full power, etc.  Then, it will lose
power again, idle roughly, stammer and cough until I turn it off again.
It's as if turning the key off resets something that allows it to start
and run fine, but then it trips again and loses power.

As I mentioned before, 6 months ago the van was doing exactly the same
thing and finally died (i.e. wouldn't run/start after one of the
episodes) so I had a new fuel pump and filter installed.  The TLM said
that the fuel pump had inadequate pressure (he did get it running again
before installing the new pump) and was grinding, so he installed the
parts anew.

The conditions under which all this occurs are not consistant: low fuel
or full tank, low or high rpms, loading the engine or coasting down a
hill, raining or sunny, nothing seems to effect it.

I've taken it back to the TLM again, and he says he can't find anything
wrong with it (it's running fine now--between episodes, that is).  I had
him put a new fuel filter on it, but anticipate that that's not the real
problem.

I'm thinking electrical, especially since it seems to "reset" with
turning off the key.  Has anyone had similar problems?  Where do I
start?  BTW: I'm pretty good at diagnosing problems with engines, but
terrible at fixing them.  Any recommendations should be easy to perform
or relatable to a VW mechanic.

Thanks in advance for your help!!

Steve

Steve Johnson
Anchorage, AK