Hey Ed,
     I had a similar problem.  My starter had a problem where when you first
turned the key nothing happened.  Then when after a few seconds of turning
the starter on it would crank.  I found that oil had gotten into the starter
solenoid.  It would cause the solenoid to stick.  When the windings of the
solenoid got hot from trying to move the plunger the oil would thin out
enough for it to move.  I fixed the problem by cleaning out the oil in the
solenoid.  I hope this helps.

Colin
'86 Syncro GL "The Bronze Brick"
-----Original Message-----
From: Ed Goodrow <A84Westy@aol.com>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Friday, December 31, 1999 8:26 AM
Subject: Starting Problem

>Hello All:
>   I have an 84 Westy with an automatic.    When I start the van, there is
a
>hesitation after I turn the key and the starter cranks.  Many times the
>starter will spin, then stop (without the key being released) and then
spins
>again.   Usually on the third crank she will start.  It seems to be taking
>longer and longer before the engine starts.
>
>   I've checked the battery connection and its solid.  Today I was going to
>check the starter for loose wires.  Any suggestions?   Could the key
cylinder
>be wearing out?
>
>Thanks;
>Ed
>84 Westy (Larry, Currly, & Moe)