[RWebb]

Thanks all.

Sammy - you overestimated the geniuses at VW - the Vanagon has that exact design deficiency.

What I don't understand is why it will restart fine when hot if it sits for 5 minutes or so (note the problem description in the OP, not just above).

It only doesn't restart if it sits for 20 minutes or more.

I am going to install a relay kit to address the design deficiency, and get a shop to look at the starter & solenoid.


oh yeh - I had a shop inspect the electrical connections at the starter/solenoid - then a year later I did as much as I could myself (i.e. w/o pulling everything apart) - VW has cleverly designed it so the connections are hard to get at...