Mark,
     Just saw your post. Your problem could very well be a faulty temp II
sensor (blue one located at thermostat). I had similar symptoms to yours,
but in my case engine ran rich even after it warmed up. Later diagnosed
problem to the temp ll sensor which was indicating a 5-6v signal rather
than the ~ 0.2v it should indicate with engine warm, 1-4v when cold
depending on ambient temp. Rather simple/inexpensive to replace. List
vendors have them for around $10 with O-ring. I have a new one I bought but
can't use because my syncro's temp ll sensor is threaded rather than the
non-syncro sensors which are secured by a retaining clip which is what I
have. When you remove sensor you'll lose some coolant so it's best to be
ready with the new one.

Thom
'87 Westy Syncro / Syncro Westy
Port Townsend, WA
----------
> From: Mark B. Magee <condor2@FLASH.NET>
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: 91 Westy Runs Rough Cold/Great Warm
> Date: Wednesday, June 02, 1999 8:21 PM
>
> Volks,
> 91 Westy has been acting increasingly strange lately on cold startup. It
> starts right up and then begins to idle rough very quickly, if it dies
> due to bad idling, it is -very- difficult to restart. On last trip I got
> by this by running idle up to 3000 RPM until warm, then idles great,
> even w A/C on max.
> Questions: Is this an ox-sensor or water temp sensor prob? (Which one??)
>
> Anyone got an idea where to start, she runs great after warmed up.
>
> --
> ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>     ><>
> Shalom                                                    87 GL
> Mark Magee                                            91 Westy
> Kemah TX USA                                      96 Suzuki 4WD Sport
> John 14:6