Mine does the same thing, but it's the actual ignition switch.... I took the
plastic off the steering column and now I have to move the black plug on the
base of the ignition switch with the key in the start position, then it
turns over.... I've got a new switch on order....  I'd check out the switch
before I started beating the starter with a hammer, as the switch going bad
is not uncommon at all.

Chris

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com]On Behalf
> Of Aled
> Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2001 11:07 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Sticky diesel starter motor
>
>
> I've an '86 1.6D HighTop Transporter (UK) and today the starter won't turn
> on the first twist of the key, following glow plug warm up. After
> subsequent
> rattling of the gear shift and dumping the clutch, rolling the van forward
> an inch (I'll try anything once...) it started as if nothing was amiss. It
> did the same this afternoon while leaving work. I've noticed that the
> starter has been getting more sluggish to engage and turn lately, though
> plenty powerful enough to crank the engine.
>
> What's the verdict? Can this starter motor be salvaged or shall I find
> another one?
> It looks like I'll have to go to work in the GTi tomorrow, how boring...
>
> Aled
>