Douglas,

I had this issue with my 84 Westy, when I had my 1.9L motor.  Chased it for
years!
From what I've read, there was an article indicating this is related to the
Valves and properly adjusted, it should be resolved.
I'm sure Dennis H. has experience in this area as well.

https://waterboxer.blogspot.com/2009/08/basics-valve-adjusting-vw-wbx-19-wha
t.html

Let me know if this resolves your issue!

It would be good to know the year / engine you currently have.  I'm assuming
the 1.9L, as that is the only model I'm aware of with this issue.

Jack R.
84 Westy (owned since 1987), now with a 2.1L
N. of Detroit

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Douglas Toomey
Sent: Tuesday, July 6, 2021 5:01 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Starter question

All,

The van developed a starting problem over the past couple of days.  The
battery is fully charged, newish, and fine. Also tried jumping the car; no
go.  I can push start it. Tested a second ignition switch.  Both the
original and the spare cause an audible clicking of the starter motor.

Current symptoms:  Turn key over, hear fuel pump.  Move key to start, hear
clicking of starter motor

Questions:

1) The Bentley shows taking the starter apart to clean commutator.  Is that
recommended?

2) How can I be sure it is starter?  Can it be the solenoid?

3) Local shop what carries GoWesty parts is closed this week. Any
suggestions on where to get a new starter motor and type?

Thanks,

Doug