Juan, the problem may be very simple to fix.  Get yourself a Bosch WR-1
relay.  When you turn the key, replay puts full battery voltage on the
solenoid.

John Lauterbach
Macon, GA
'84 7-passenger.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Martinez" <mart1nez@PACBELL.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, December 10, 2003 11:02 PM
Subject: intermittent starting problem

> A little advice if you would,
>
> my 85 westy has an intermittent starting problem where the starter will
not
> turn.  I know my batteries are good (tested).
> I hear the fuel pump but nothing else.  It can happen when cold or hot.
If
> I walk away from it for a bit and try again later it usually cranks
(haven't
> gotten stranded anywhere for too long yet).
>
> Does this sound like a starter solenoid?  Anything else short of a new
> starter?  Is the solenoid even replaceable?
>
> BTW - the cables are all securely terminated on batteries and starter
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Juan