Solenoid not that easy to find but yes, it can be replaced separately.
Here in the Mpls/St. Paul area, try:

A&B Auto Electric

Burnsville, off Cty 13 just east of Savage, 612/894-5147

Hopkins, North side of road on Excelsior Blvd, east of Hwy 100, 612/936-9740

Good prices, can rebuild your old one, usually easier to pick up new one
from them.

Ch
'89 SyncroBeast Vanagon

'87 16V GTI
'87 16V GTI w/ hale damage
'89 16V GTI w/ toasted motor
'86 Scirocco (8 valve w/ auto)

'80 850 Yamaha Special

Prior Lake, MinneSnowta
well, ok, it's summer
Land of Sky Blue Waters

<SNIP>
also is the solenoid in a vw starter replaceable by itself or do i have =
to do the whole darn starter?
mark =20