1985 VW Vanagon No Start When Hot

1985 VOLKSWAGEN
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85VAN
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  • 1 POST
I have a 1985 VW vanagon with 250k miles.
It turns over a couple times before starting (battery sounds a little weak), and doesn't start at all when warm. It'll just turn over when I turn the key.
Then I have to wait about an hour for the engine to cool before I can start it again.
Does the battery need to be replaced or is it something else?
Thanks,
Dominick
defino4@juno.com
Dec 16, 2006 at 6:08 AM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
Your engine is far beyond it's normal life which is about 150K. With older engines, you tend to loose compression when the engine is hot. You may have a leaking fuel problem which further washes the cylinders lowing the compression. It could be as simple as needing a new set of Bosch plugs.

When attempting do not give it any gas. Crank with your foot off the pedal. Let me know

losone
Dec 18, 2006 at 1:39 AM
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Suggested Repair

Do not press the accelerator while cranking. Check for low hot compression, possible fuel washdown from a leak, and try a new set of Bosch spark plugs. The high-mileage engine may lose compression when hot rather than simply needing a battery.

Conversation Summary

A 1985 Volkswagen Vanagon with 250,000 miles cranks a few times before starting and will not start at all when warm until it cools for about an hour. The owner wonders if the battery is weak. The expert says the engine is well past typical life, hot compression loss is common, a fuel leak may wash the cylinders, and new Bosch plugs may help. Crank with the foot off the pedal and no throttle.

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