John

There are many articles on this problem posted in the archives.

I had the same problem in 1991.  Exactly the same symptoms.
Spent many dollars replacing parts that were not the cause.
What finally solved the problem was to replace the coolant temperature
sensor.
It also checked out ok when checking.  Did you check it hot also?

I discovered a way of starting the van while stalled, I don't know why
exactly it worked.  While stalled, I started the engine as follows:  Unplug
coil
wire at the distributor. Hold (or lean) open end 1/4 inch from engine block.
Turn ignition key for a second or two.  Put coil wire back on distributor.
Start engine, keep foot on gas for a bit to stop engine from dying until
it runs normal again.  This worked for my 85 Vanagon.  I took 2 years
before somebody solved the problem.  (It was not a VW shop!)

Good luck

Alfred

----- Original Message -----
From: John Y. Hung <jhung@ENG.AUBURN.EDU>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, August 24, 1999 2:04 PM
Subject: hot starting problem

> Dear fellow Vanagon Listers,
>
> I've got an '84 Vanagon GL with 1.9L watercooled engine that starts
> reluctantly when hot.  If the engine doesn't start within 2-3 seconds, I
> can give up - it won't start until things cool somewhat.  Also, there is a
> distinct smell of unburned gasoline.  I suspect that the system is too
> rich, even flooding.  I've check both temperature sensors (coolant sensor
> and air temp sensor), and both seem OK.  Spark plugs, wires, distributor
> cap, and rotor are all new.  Could the charcoal canister subsystem be a
> source of problems?  Engine starts fine cold.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> John Hung
> 84 GL
> Auburn, AL