The relay only fixes the solenoid failing to fully engage. It will not help a starter that turns but turns too slowly. This is usually a cable or battery issue. Over advanced ignition timing can also cause hard hot starts. 

Make sure that relay is a heavy duty unit with double break contacts like the solenoid cans. The little cube relays can have the contact weld closed making the starter remain on. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Steve Lavigueur
Sent: Monday, February 14, 2011 8:33 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Hot start problem

I have heard that installing a 'hard start relay' fixes the problem,  it reduces
the load across the ignition switch.

I bought one for my 85, as it does this occasionally. I am waiting for it to
warm up before I install it

I bought a kit  from  'thatvwbusguy' on the samba - 18 bucks

Steve