What is the part on the left side of the engine compartment in my van?

Belt driven components can only be any of these :

1. Alternator.
2. A/C compressor.
3. Power steering pump.
4. Supercharger.

A picture would help identify it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

For non starting, check out the above link.

On your 1.9L boxer engine, when viewed from the rear, the alternator
is on the right side... the A/C compressor (if equipped) is on the left side.

The power steering (if equipped) is on the right side, below & to the
right of the Alternator.

The water pump is below the A/C compressor.

Can you post a picture?

Since your engine is cranking fine, your charging system must have
been working fine up until now... so you might just be dealing with
a "no spark" or "no fuel" issue.

I haven't seen an alternator leak black stuff, but I guess it could
happen... protective coating that is inside, got hot & started to ooz out.

Thomas

Attached is an image of a 1.9L engine: Is the part you are wondering
about in this image?

If the Alternator belt is loose, you can tighten it by loosening three
13mm fittings and pivoting the alternator to the right to apply tension
to the belt.

Thomas

Is the van running yet? Can't help if you don't post updates... cranks good but doesn't run.

Missing spark or fuel... both can be checked easily.

I figured out that it is the a/c compressor. thanks for your help!

Thanks for the update!

Thomas