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Subject:vanagon won't start
From:Wil Barker
Date:Tue, 22 Sep 1998 16:26:09 -0400

Hey all,
        Diagnosis help needed! Here's the scenario: '91 automatic GL
1. I'm driving and the engine intermittently completely shuts down, the
tach goes to zero rpms immediately, but for awhile it restarts if I'm going
highway speeds, in other words it restarts while I'm moving without turning
the key.
2. These power cutoffs get longer and longer and the van finally stops
running and won't start, the starter is working normally. It sounds as if
there is no fuel delivery. No smell of gas after prolonged cranking of the
starter.(Yes the tank is full ;+) )
3. I swapped fuel pumps no change. Fuel filter is 2 months old.
4. I will next check the coil and the fuel pump relay. Offhand does anyone
know where the relay is located? I'm studying the Bentley wiring diagram
and located the ground for the pump at current track 33 so eventually I
will find the relay, but I have never had to really use wiring diagrams
before and so this is a new learning experience for me. Any suggestions of
other components to check (and how to check them) will be greatly
appreciated. Thanks.
Rick Koller
'90 syncro westie (still behaving)
'91 auto gl (not cooperating)

Try checking the mass air flow meter (aluminum thing
near the air filter box) Had a similar problem with mine...
Repleacing this fixed it.  I'm not shure of the procedure
but i believe it can be checked with an ohm meter.

- Wil
'85 Westy

- your air flow meter costs $175 from www.volksmotorsports.com ,  I think.