Strange starting

Post by **Pike** » 23 Nov 2008, 21:52

I've been looking at a 1981 2.0 Aircooled camper today as a potential purchase, the owner pointed out something strange when starting. When the key is turned to the start position the engine turns over but then it sounds like the battery is going flat and that it is barely turning over but when the key is released the engine bursts into life. Any ideas what could be causing this?

Post by **ermie571** » 24 Nov 2008, 06:44

no expert, but electrical?

Just guessing, but is the ignition switch warn and not making proper contacts until the key moves slightly?

or, its a VW?

Did you get it?

Em
x

Post by **lloyd** » 24 Nov 2008, 07:39

Sounds like ignition not getting any or enough volt/amp while starter is running.

Could be many things:
Low battery, starter pulling more amps then it should, ignition/starter switch, cap/rotor/plugs, etc.

Starter bushing and/or brushes.
Ignition switch not contacting as it should on start position.
Excessive plug gap.

Could be any or a combination of above.

Post by **rugchucker** » 24 Nov 2008, 08:57

Hi just to add my 2 pennorth

I had the same prob and it was cured when I changed the earth strap to the battery

Post by **pmulcahy** » 24 Nov 2008, 15:55

I had this same problem too, just cleaned the connections (nut and stud)on the starter motor and covered in grease.

Post by **Pike** » 26 Nov 2008, 22:17

Thanks for all the ideas for fixing the problem, I still have not decided yet
whether I'm going to buy ( actually a straight swop for my Beetle ) this camper yet.