Club 80-90 Forums

I have a 1989 automatic VW T25 campervan which often fails to start. We have had the alternator changed as well as the main battery. Sometimes it will start with no problem and then at other times it will not start at all. We jump start it when it fails to start and then it is fine. Any advice on what the potential problems might be would be much appreciated.

A worn out ignition switch (assuming all connections to starter are good) can give these symptoms. Sometimes it'll make the contact, at other times it won't. Cheap to replace too.

Thanks for the advice - will give that a go.

Worth noting however that starters themselves tend to give the same symptoms when in need of a rebuild. As a starting point, do check that the smaller connector wire to starter is making a good contact and that all heavy wires on starter (ie from battery as well as earth cable) are clean and in good condition. I've come across starters with earth connectors that are fragile and give intermittent connections. Best bet might be to disconnect battery, remove starter and really clean up connectors properly, You can only get a really good look this way.

If it still plays you up (and winter time is the most likely time for failure of starters and batteries generally), get a new starter. Starters for automatics can be expensive so pays to find a local company or knowledgable person who can overhaul it for you. Trust me, you don't need this hassle knee deep in snow.

Where are you.Please fill in your profile so we know what area you live in.As i have a spare auto starter motor here you could try.

a seriously generous offer senor rob

covkid - if the connections to the starter are good - you suggest looking at the ignition switch -
do you mean this?



if so - is it easy to replace? No drilling involved? Any obvious steps?

edoh

ignition switch is in the steering cowl get one from brickyard.
https://club8090.co.uk/wiki/VW ... ion_Switch" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

thats the one -
cheers matey -