can you describe how one would make a Remote Starter Switch? I have a
new/rebuilt starter in my van and it has been acting up once in a
while, turn the key and nothing happens. Idiot lights come on but no
start and then it will start. I think it must be ignition switch
replacement time

On 9/27/08, Scott Daniel - Turbovans <scottdaniel@turbovans.com> wrote:
> one very efficient way to start on this issue is :
>
> you have a Remote Starter Switch ( a tool ) in your tool kit.
> You've previously rigged a 'starter trigger' wire ( tied into the trigger
> wire to the starter solenoid, which is a bit hard to access in a syncro
> anyway )  in your engine compartment so it's easily accessible .
>
> you hook up your Remote Starter Switch to that wire, in about 4 seconds you
> know if the starter is lame/weak............and then you know to work in
> that area,
> OR..........if that makes it crank nicely, you know the starter is
> fine...........and you direct your attention to the ignition switch area.
>
> In any case, take a good look, and possibly clean and tighten the ground
> strap at the front of the transmission.
>
> And really............a remote starter switch is SO useful I can't say it
> enough.  Numerous uses for self-rescue and trouble shooting.
> I could not fix cars without one.
> After a simple test light, it's my next most important electrical tool. Even
> more valuable than a volt-ohm meter, it's that useful.
>
> btw, the electrical part of the ignition switch is a common failure item in
> Vanagons - a somewhat underbuilt part.  On some of my quite old vanagons, I
> even add a dedicated starter button on the dash, so I don't have to depend
> on the electrical part of the ignition switch,
> and those 20 year old wires going all the way back to the starter.
> Scott
> turbovans.com
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Matthew Berlett" <Mattmoosh2000@COMCAST.NET>
> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Saturday, September 27, 2008 8:15 AM
> Subject: 86 syncro doesnt start
>
>
>>I turn the key and the engine doesn't turn over but the lights turn on. It
>> makes no noise. If I try starting it repeatedly it does start eventually.
>> I
>> am thinking dirty connections somewhere but I don't know where to start.
>