Stranded in New England

41
Interesting! I'm not accustomed to finding trolls on an Oz list. Nice to
know it's not just an American affliction!

Larry Hamm
USA

Ken Garratt wrote:
>
>
> Scott,
> No indeed? I see. Bugger eh. Sounds to me like a big fat tick in favour
> of the WBX 2.1.
> Haha ....... you subie guys are just sooooooooooooo masochistic! Then
> again, heh why not simply delegate the engine oil checking task to your
> beloved? Now that'd go down a real treat and I'd like to be a fly on the
> wall to see the furor haha
>
> I see you raised the horsepower and reliability myths to try and get
> yourself off the hook. Interesting.
>
> On the reliability myth, I seem to recall it being reported here by an
> esteem member concerning his stock WBX 2.1. It was said it has never
> been opened up and has passed 400k clicks and still going strong. I
> believe his last longest trip was down and back to the recent DOTVW in
> Vic no problemo.
>
> So Scott, that begs my next question ok. Does that 400k plus clicks
> unopened WBX 2.1 motor suggest it's reliable or unreliable?
> Just reliable or unreliable will suffice.
>
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
> ps., I'll get back to you on the horsepower myth thingy next time ok
> Ken
>
>
>
> > To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > From: spbconsulting@bigpond.com
> > Date: Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:03:23 +1000
> > Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> > No Ken.
> >
> > But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
> >
> > Skot
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
> > To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> > Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> > Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> >
> > > Scott,
> > > Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the
> engine oil
> > > and coolant?
> > > Yes or no will suffice.
> > > Cheers.
> > > Ken
42
Ken,
 
Hartmuts engine is a rare beast unfortunately. I have seen so many with "Vanagon syndrome" , leaking head gaskets, dodgy engine studs, dodgy air flow sensors (that is an interesting and archaic design by the way) all of the problems that us Scooby owners don't have. Gotta love those push rods - same technology as my 71 kombi and actually my brother 67 splitty!
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 12:07 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

Scott,
No indeed? I see. Bugger eh. Sounds to me like a big fat tick in favour of the WBX 2.1.
Haha ....... you subie guys are just sooooooooooooo masochistic! Then again, heh why not simply delegate the engine oil checking task to your beloved? Now that'd go down a real treat and I'd like to be a fly on the wall to see the furor  haha
 
I see you raised the horsepower and reliability myths to try and get yourself off the hook. Interesting.
 
On the reliability myth, I seem to recall it being reported here by an esteem member concerning his stock WBX 2.1. It was said it has never been opened up and has passed 400k clicks and still going strong. I believe his last longest trip was down and back to the recent DOTVW in Vic no problemo.
 
So Scott, that begs my next question ok. Does that 400k plus clicks unopened WBX 2.1 motor suggest it's reliable or unreliable?
Just reliable or unreliable will suffice.
 
Cheers.
Ken
 
ps., I'll get back to you on the horsepower myth thingy next time ok
Ken
 

 
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
> From: spbconsulting@ bigpond.com
> Date: Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:03:23 +1000
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail. com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia @yahoogroups. com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
> > Scott,
> > Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> > and coolant?
> > Yes or no will suffice.
> > Cheers.
> > Ken
> >
> >

Find it on Domain.com.au Need a new place to live?

43
I guess mine's a rare beast too.
285k on original wasserboxer. Dramas so far include water tree ( whatever you do, replace that with a stainless one ) air flow meter and coil. Otherwise original everything , no leaks , doesn't miss a beat.
Would I put a Subaru donk in ? Absolutely, when the WBX dies.
Costs about the same to replace so why not have 125kw vs 77kw ? And the torque that is sorely missing when you're battling up a long steep sandy dune with 10 psi and loaded up !

Mark


--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Mr Scott Pitcher" <spbconsulting@...> wrote:
>
> Ken,
>
> Hartmuts engine is a rare beast unfortunately. I have seen so many with "Vanagon syndrome" , leaking head gaskets, dodgy engine studs, dodgy air flow sensors (that is an interesting and archaic design by the way) all of the problems that us Scooby owners don't have. Gotta love those push rods - same technology as my 71 kombi and actually my brother 67 splitty!
>
> Cheers,
>
> Skot
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Ken Garratt
> To: Syncro _T3_Australia forum
> Sent: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 12:07 PM
> Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
>
> Scott,
> No indeed? I see. Bugger eh. Sounds to me like a big fat tick in favour of the WBX 2.1.
> Haha ....... you subie guys are just sooooooooooooo masochistic! Then again, heh why not simply delegate the engine oil checking task to your beloved? Now that'd go down a real treat and I'd like to be a fly on the wall to see the furor haha
>
> I see you raised the horsepower and reliability myths to try and get yourself off the hook. Interesting.
>
> On the reliability myth, I seem to recall it being reported here by an esteem member concerning his stock WBX 2.1. It was said it has never been opened up and has passed 400k clicks and still going strong. I believe his last longest trip was down and back to the recent DOTVW in Vic no problemo.
>
> So Scott, that begs my next question ok. Does that 400k plus clicks unopened WBX 2.1 motor suggest it's reliable or unreliable?
> Just reliable or unreliable will suffice.
>
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
> ps., I'll get back to you on the horsepower myth thingy next time ok
> Ken
>
>
>
> > To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > From: spbconsulting@...
> > Date: Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:03:23 +1000
> > Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> > No Ken.
> >
> > But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
> >
> > Skot
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@...>
> > To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> > Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> > Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> >
> > > Scott,
> > > Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> > > and coolant?
> > > Yes or no will suffice.
> > > Cheers.
> > > Ken
> > >
> > >
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Find it on Domain.com.au Need a new place to live?
>
44
Scott,
Two entirely separate issues you cover there.
 
My point is that a properly maimtained WBX2.1 motor is reliable, instance Hartmuts. What isn't reliable are many of their owners.
Seems owners get on the bandwagon and blame the motor and external components when things go awry. How fair is that?
 
Bearing in mind they worked fine when new (except for 20F3 Recall and vanagon syndrome ... both fixable), means that after 20 years use, they are deserving of some TLC to get them back up to something similar.
 
Whoever gets my syncro after me .... at least they'll know it's a proper VW.
Cheers.
Ken  

 


To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: spbconsulting@bigpond.com
Date: Tue, 6 Jul 2010 14:53:13 +1000
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 
Ken,
 
Hartmuts engine is a rare beast unfortunately. I have seen so many with "Vanagon syndrome" , leaking head gaskets, dodgy engine studs, dodgy air flow sensors (that is an interesting and archaic design by the way) all of the problems that us Scooby owners don't have. Gotta love those push rods - same technology as my 71 kombi and actually my brother 67 splitty!
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 12:07 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 
Scott,
No indeed? I see. Bugger eh. Sounds to me like a big fat tick in favour of the WBX 2.1.
Haha ....... you subie guys are just sooooooooooooo masochistic! Then again, heh why not simply delegate the engine oil checking task to your beloved? Now that'd go down a real treat and I'd like to be a fly on the wall to see the furor  haha
 
I see you raised the horsepower and reliability myths to try and get yourself off the hook. Interesting.
 
On the reliability myth, I seem to recall it being reported here by an esteem member concerning his stock WBX 2.1. It was said it has never been opened up and has passed 400k clicks and still going strong. I believe his last longest trip was down and back to the recent DOTVW in Vic no problemo.
 
So Scott, that begs my next question ok. Does that 400k plus clicks unopened WBX 2.1 motor suggest it's reliable or unreliable?
Just reliable or unreliable will suffice.
 
Cheers.
Ken
 
ps., I'll get back to you on the horsepower myth thingy next time ok
Ken
 

 
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
> From: spbconsulting@ bigpond.com
> Date: Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:03:23 +1000
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail. com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia @yahoogroups. com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
> > Scott,
> > Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> > and coolant?
> > Yes or no will suffice.
> > Cheers.
> > Ken
> >
> >

Find it on Domain.com.au Need a new place to live?





Australia's #1 job site If It Exists, You'll Find it on SEEK
45

Hi Ken. Back in Port M at last. Syncro all washed and looking schmick. Have a new ignition switch to install and the way the sparky wired up my temp switch and button I can leave it there tucked up under the dash for safety. Will be checking headlight globes on Monday. I have the old bull bar off and will drop out to see Hart and put the new one on next week.

 

RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?

 

Peter

 

 

 

46

Peter,
 
My crystal ball anticipates the short answer to your question is no.
 
I take it you have read and digested the VAG internal bulletin concerning the AFM harness add-on fix (see attachment). This bulletin first saw the light of day here on this forum not that long ago thanks to Yurik in Perth. From memory, he sourced it from a contact who was once a VAG employee.
 
Bare in mind that in Australia, this matter was never the subject of an official vehicle recall between VAG and the Dept. of Transport & Regional Services. It was merely an internal initiative by VAG at the time to address a perceived electrical/signal problem stemming from the AFM. Meaning that VAG, if approached now, could easily tell you to simply go jump (politely?).
 
The facts of the matter as stated in this bulletin are consistant with my prior understanding concerning the free distribution/fitting by VAG at the time to T3/MV vehicles that presented for routine service at VAG service centres. Meaning that all other eligible vehicles serviced elsewhere or owner serviced would have missed out and certainly there would never have been an official VAG communication via letter to all known T3 owners at the time to draw this matter to individuals attention.
 
I would suggest that, if you so choose to, you be guided by the content of that bulletin and so form a strategy accordingly to best effect in an approach to "try on" a VW service centre of your choice. I would think by now it would be very unlikely VAG personnel would have any knowledge or record of this bulletin, so this could be an interesting challenge. Still, it is possible the local service centre, guided by instructions from head office, just may come through for you. Do you have anything to lose? Are you up to the challenge? Do you need a life coach to assist you in this matter? haha
 
Also bare in mind it was not that long ago it was reported here of a member who chose to purchase one of these new from VAG for the princely sum of something like $350 from memory ... I'll stand corrected on the exact amount.
 
As I said previously, these can be had secondhand occasionally on eBay or The Samba from say $50 upwards plus shipping. What is unclear though is that the Australian distributed harness fix is part no. 025 906 302A whereas some examples sourced seconhand from US are missing the A on the end. Does this suggest an internal difference between them?
 
Should anyone purchase a secondhand one, often the thin rubber protective boot is already torn. It doesn't seem to affect functionality but I suppose water and debris could end up inside. Either figure out a way to patch it or in my case, I formed a complete flexible seal over the torn rubber boot using a rubberised 2 pack epoxy.
 
For those who missed the relevant detailed article ...
Goto: http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm
 
Also see attached a pic of the AFM harness add-on fix part with a ruler. Gives an idea of its length.
 
Did I miss something?
 
Cheers.
Ken 
 
PS: Peter, on the ignition switch issue, I've not had reason yet to replace one so I for one am interested to learn of any difficulties in such a procedure, should the need ever arise in the future. So after you've mastered the changeover technique, I and perhaps others here would appreciate some feedback on the methodology .. TIA.
  
 
 
 
 
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: peter@coeconsult.com.au
Date: Sat, 10 Jul 2010 22:07:57 +1000
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue

 

Hi Ken. Back in Port M at last. Syncro all washed and looking schmick. Have a new ignition switch to install and the way the sparky wired up my temp switch and button I can leave it there tucked up under the dash for safety. Will be checking headlight globes on Monday. I have the old bull bar off and will drop out to see Hart and put the new one on next week.

 

RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?

 

Peter

 

 

 



Australia's #1 job site If It Exists, You'll Find it on SEEK
47
> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW
> dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>
> Peter

No, they will charge lots!

It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
48
> Bare in mind that in Australia, this matter was never the subject of an
> official vehicle recall between VAG and the Dept. of Transport &
> Regional Services. It was merely an internal initiative by VAG at the
> time to address a perceived electrical/signal problem stemming from the
> AFM. Meaning that VAG, if approached now, could easily tell you to
> simply go jump (politely?).

That's correct, you will be told.

A friend of mine had to pay when his syncro was only 18 months old and travelled about 2000kms.
It was only free during the warranty period if a complaint was made, not during routine servicing.
49
On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@optusnet.com.au> wrote:


> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW
> dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>
> Peter

No, they will charge lots!

It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
Not a recall item in the US either.
BenT
50
my experience is different ..
I find them fitted to many 2.1 waterboxer T3's.
 
if one isn't there, I don't worry about it if there's not problem.
If I have one, for my own van, I will run one for sure.
 
I just saw them on Van Cafe for about  $ 380 US I think.
Go Westy sells them too.
I 'might' sell a used one..
though with the distance to Aus and the cost and it being a used electronic part...not a good idea I don't think.
 
btw...congrats to the throttle cable guy !
way to go ..with that generic cable from  a Honda motorcycle shop.  That's doin' 'er right..
whatever it takes to keep moving.
and for sure ..on a trip, with that working ..
I'd just leave it be. 
    I don't like to touch much on a trip if things are working.
sometimes you touch something that's sort of working but not broken..
and you wish you hadn't.
 
and I sure don't touch anything unless I'm parked next to a parts store if I can be..
 
but then, I've come acorss a Mexican in a sandwash in Baja, just  hours and hours of slow driving from  anywhere at all,  with a carburetor all apart in bits,  using a hubcap for a bowl to hold gas and carb parts...but I don't recommend it !
lol.
;-)
Scott
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Saturday, July 10, 2010 3:04 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue

 



On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@optusnet. com.au> wrote:


> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW
> dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>
> Peter

No, they will charge lots!

It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
 
Not a recall item in the US either.
 
 
BenT

51
Does anyone know if the t3's built after this harness was released had a fix of a different nature. What I am getting at is my syncro is late '92 and there are no lumps or bumps in the wiring loom to the afm. I drove mine down from Cairns from 6am to 6pm three days in a row and did not have one hicup. A previous owner has replaced the original afm with a second hand one when it failed, so the mod isn't in there. I remember hearing they updated the ecu at some stage, could this have a mod in it? If so it may be a better fix than a patch harness and you will have a spare ecu for breakdown/testing. Has anyone tried the capacitor mod with success? Greg E

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, BenT Syncro <syncro@...> wrote:
>
> On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@...> wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > > RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> > > VW
> > > dealer here has to install one free of charge?
> > >
> > > Peter
> >
> > No, they will charge lots!
> >
> > It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
> >
>
> Not a recall item in the US either.
>
>
> BenT
>
52

Ken,  g/m,  lovely day up here. Took my cable out to send it to Fran but it has the “A” missing, it’s only 025 906 302 . You think it matters?? H.

 

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ken Garratt
Sent: Sunday, 11 July 2010 12:53 AM
To: Syncro _T3_Australia forum
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue

 

 


Peter,
 
My crystal ball anticipates the short answer to your question is no.
 
I take it you have read and digested the VAG internal bulletin concerning the AFM harness add-on fix (see attachment). This bulletin first saw the light of day here on this forum not that long ago thanks to Yurik in Perth. From memory, he sourced it from a contact who was once a VAG employee.
 
Bare in mind that in Australia, this matter was never the subject of an official vehicle recall between VAG and the Dept. of Transport & Regional Services. It was merely an internal initiative by VAG at the time to address a perceived electrical/signal problem stemming from the AFM. Meaning that VAG, if approached now, could easily tell you to simply go jump (politely?).
 
The facts of the matter as stated in this bulletin are consistant with my prior understanding concerning the free distribution/fitting by VAG at the time to T3/MV vehicles that presented for routine service at VAG service centres. Meaning that all other eligible vehicles serviced elsewhere or owner serviced would have missed out and certainly there would never have been an official VAG communication via letter to all known T3 owners at the time to draw this matter to individuals attention.
 
I would suggest that, if you so choose to, you be guided by the content of that bulletin and so form a strategy accordingly to best effect in an approach to "try on" a VW service centre of your choice. I would think by now it would be very unlikely VAG personnel would have any knowledge or record of this bulletin, so this could be an interesting challenge. Still, it is possible the local service centre, guided by instructions from head office, just may come through for you. Do you have anything to lose? Are you up to the challenge? Do you need a life coach to assist you in this matter? haha
 
Also bare in mind it was not that long ago it was reported here of a member who chose to purchase one of these new from VAG for the princely sum of something like $350 from memory ... I'll stand corrected on the exact amount.
 
As I said previously, these can be had secondhand occasionally on eBay or The Samba from say $50 upwards plus shipping. What is unclear though is that the Australian distributed harness fix is part no. 025 906 302A whereas some examples sourced seconhand from US are missing the A on the end. Does this suggest an internal difference between them?
 
Should anyone purchase a secondhand one, often the thin rubber protective boot is already torn. It doesn't seem to affect functionality but I suppose water and debris could end up inside. Either figure out a way to patch it or in my case, I formed a complete flexible seal over the torn rubber boot using a rubberised 2 pack epoxy.
 
For those who missed the relevant detailed article ...
Goto: http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm
 
Also see attached a pic of the AFM harness add-on fix part with a ruler. Gives an idea of its length.
 
Did I miss something?
 
Cheers.
Ken 
 
PS: Peter, on the ignition switch issue, I've not had reason yet to replace one so I for one am interested to learn of any difficulties in such a procedure, should the need ever arise in the future. So after you've mastered the changeover technique, I and perhaps others here would appreciate some feedback on the methodology .. TIA.
  
 
 
 
 

To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: peter@coeconsult.com.au
Date: Sat, 10 Jul 2010 22:07:57 +1000
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue

 

Hi Ken. Back in Port M at last. Syncro all washed and looking schmick. Have a new ignition switch to install and the way the sparky wired up my temp switch and button I can leave it there tucked up under the dash for safety. Will be checking headlight globes on Monday. I have the old bull bar off and will drop out to see Hart and put the new one on next week.

 

RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?

 

Peter

 

 

 

 

 

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The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

 

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53
There is no other fix.

It doesn't happen on all T3s.

If it aint broke, don't fix it.


> gregespo73 <gregespo73@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Does anyone know if the t3's built after this harness was released had a
> fix of a different nature. What I am getting at is my syncro is late '92
> and there are no lumps or bumps in the wiring loom to the afm. I drove
> mine down from Cairns from 6am to 6pm three days in a row and did not
> have one hicup. A previous owner has replaced the original afm with a
> second hand one when it failed, so the mod isn't in there. I remember
> hearing they updated the ecu at some stage, could this have a mod in it?
> If so it may be a better fix than a patch harness and you will have a
> spare ecu for breakdown/testing. Has anyone tried the capacitor mod with
> success? Greg E
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, BenT Syncro <syncro@...>
> wrote:
> >
> > On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@...> wrote:
> >
> > >
> > >
> > > > RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the
> local
> > > > VW
> > > > dealer here has to install one free of charge?
> > > >
> > > > Peter
> > >
> > > No, they will charge lots!
> > >
> > > It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
> > >
> >
> > Not a recall item in the US either.
> >
> >
> > BenT
> >
54
Hart, that is the correct part number, there is no A.

http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm




> Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au> wrote:
>
> Ken, g/m, lovely day up here. Took my cable out to send it to Fran but
> it
> has the "A" missing, it's only 025 906 302 . You think it matters?? H.
>
>
>
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ken Garratt
> Sent: Sunday, 11 July 2010 12:53 AM
> To: Syncro _T3_Australia forum
> Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Peter,
>
> My crystal ball anticipates the short answer to your question is no.
>
> I take it you have read and digested the VAG internal bulletin
> concerning
> the AFM harness add-on fix (see attachment). This bulletin first saw the
> light of day here on this forum not that long ago thanks to Yurik in
> Perth.
> From memory, he sourced it from a contact who was once a VAG employee.
>
> Bare in mind that in Australia, this matter was never the subject of an
> official vehicle recall between VAG and the Dept. of Transport &
> Regional
> Services. It was merely an internal initiative by VAG at the time to
> address
> a perceived electrical/signal problem stemming from the AFM. Meaning
> that
> VAG, if approached now, could easily tell you to simply go jump
> (politely?).
>
> The facts of the matter as stated in this bulletin are consistant with
> my
> prior understanding concerning the free distribution/fitting by VAG at
> the
> time to T3/MV vehicles that presented for routine service at VAG service
> centres. Meaning that all other eligible vehicles serviced elsewhere or
> owner serviced would have missed out and certainly there would never
> have
> been an official VAG communication via letter to all known T3 owners at
> the
> time to draw this matter to individuals attention.
>
> I would suggest that, if you so choose to, you be guided by the content
> of
> that bulletin and so form a strategy accordingly to best effect in an
> approach to "try on" a VW service centre of your choice. I would think
> by
> now it would be very unlikely VAG personnel would have any knowledge or
> record of this bulletin, so this could be an interesting challenge.
> Still,
> it is possible the local service centre, guided by instructions from
> head
> office, just may come through for you. Do you have anything to lose? Are
> you
> up to the challenge? Do you need a life coach to assist you in this
> matter?
> haha
>
> Also bare in mind it was not that long ago it was reported here of a
> member
> who chose to purchase one of these new from VAG for the princely sum of
> something like $350 from memory ... I'll stand corrected on the exact
> amount.
>
> As I said previously, these can be had secondhand occasionally on eBay
> or
> The Samba from say $50 upwards plus shipping. What is unclear though is
> that
> the Australian distributed harness fix is part no. 025 906 302A whereas
> some
> examples sourced seconhand from US are missing the A on the end. Does
> this
> suggest an internal difference between them?
>
> Should anyone purchase a secondhand one, often the thin rubber
> protective
> boot is already torn. It doesn't seem to affect functionality but I
> suppose
> water and debris could end up inside. Either figure out a way to patch
> it or
> in my case, I formed a complete flexible seal over the torn rubber boot
> using a rubberised 2 pack epoxy.
>
> For those who missed the relevant detailed article ...
> Goto:
> http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm
>
> Also see attached a pic of the AFM harness add-on fix part with a ruler.
> Gives an idea of its length.
>
> Did I miss something?
>
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
> PS: Peter, on the ignition switch issue, I've not had reason yet to
> replace
> one so I for one am interested to learn of any difficulties in such a
> procedure, should the need ever arise in the future. So after you've
> mastered the changeover technique, I and perhaps others here would
> appreciate some feedback on the methodology .. TIA.
>
>
>
>
>
>
> _____
>
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> From: peter@coeconsult.com.au
> Date: Sat, 10 Jul 2010 22:07:57 +1000
> Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue
>
>
>
> Hi Ken. Back in Port M at last. Syncro all washed and looking schmick.
> Have
> a new ignition switch to install and the way the sparky wired up my temp
> switch and button I can leave it there tucked up under the dash for
> safety.
> Will be checking headlight globes on Monday. I have the old bull bar off
> and
> will drop out to see Hart and put the new one on next week.
>
>
>
> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW
> dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>
>
>
> Peter
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> _____
>
> Australia's #1 job site If It
> <http://clk.atdmt.com/NMN/go/157639755/direct/01/> Exists, You'll Find
> it
> on SEEK
>
>
>
>
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus
> signature
> database 5266 (20100709) __________
>
>
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
>
>
> http://www.eset.com
55
I wasn't looking to do anything to mine Phill, I just thought if there was a cheaper fix I might be able to help Francesca out as she lives quite close. Greg E

--- On Sun, 11/7/10, plander@optusnet.com.au <plander@optusnet.com.au> wrote:

From: plander@optusnet.com.au <plander@optusnet.com.au>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Home at Last/AFM Issue
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Sunday, 11 July, 2010, 9:26 AM

 

There is no other fix.

It doesn't happen on all T3s.

If it aint broke, don't fix it.

> gregespo73 <gregespo73@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Does anyone know if the t3's built after this harness was released had a
> fix of a different nature. What I am getting at is my syncro is late '92
> and there are no lumps or bumps in the wiring loom to the afm. I drove
> mine down from Cairns from 6am to 6pm three days in a row and did not
> have one hicup. A previous owner has replaced the original afm with a
> second hand one when it failed, so the mod isn't in there. I remember
> hearing they updated the ecu at some stage, could this have a mod in it?
> If so it may be a better fix than a patch harness and you will have a
> spare ecu for breakdown/testing. Has anyone tried the capacitor mod with
> success? Greg E
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, BenT Syncro <syncro@...>
> wrote:
> >
> > On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@...> wrote:
> >
> > >
> > >
> > > > RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the
> local
> > > > VW
> > > > dealer here has to install one free of charge?
> > > >
> > > > Peter
> > >
> > > No, they will charge lots!
> > >
> > > It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
> > >
> >
> > Not a recall item in the US either.
> >
> >
> > BenT
> >

 
56
Thanks for the thought, Greg. And thanks a whole lot, Hartmut.

It would be lovely if fitting the harness solves the bucking/choking problem. I'd be happy enough to fork out good money for a new one if it does. Of course the problem could be caused by something else not so amenable to diagnosis or a cheap fix. Fingers crossed, however.... There have been a couple of times when the choking has been a little alarming, say pulling out into traffic and she won't get up and go.

Francesca.


On Sun, Jul 11, 2010 at 9:56 AM, greg esposito <gregespo73@yahoo.com> wrote:

I wasn't looking to do anything to mine Phill, I just thought if there was a cheaper fix I might be able to help Francesca out as she lives quite close. Greg E

--- On Sun, 11/7/10, plander@optusnet.com.au <plander@optusnet.com.au> wrote:

From: plander@optusnet.com.au <plander@optusnet.com.au>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Home at Last/AFM Issue
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Sunday, 11 July, 2010, 9:26 AM



There is no other fix.

It doesn't happen on all T3s.

If it aint broke, don't fix it.

> gregespo73 <gregespo73@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Does anyone know if the t3's built after this harness was released had a
> fix of a different nature. What I am getting at is my syncro is late '92
> and there are no lumps or bumps in the wiring loom to the afm. I drove
> mine down from Cairns from 6am to 6pm three days in a row and did not
> have one hicup. A previous owner has replaced the original afm with a
> second hand one when it failed, so the mod isn't in there. I remember
> hearing they updated the ecu at some stage, could this have a mod in it?
> If so it may be a better fix than a patch harness and you will have a
> spare ecu for breakdown/testing. Has anyone tried the capacitor mod with
> success? Greg E
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, BenT Syncro <syncro@...>
> wrote:
> >
> > On Sat, Jul 10, 2010 at 2:23 PM, <plander@...> wrote:
> >
> > >
> > >
> > > > RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the
> local
> > > > VW
> > > > dealer here has to install one free of charge?
> > > >
> > > > Peter
> > >
> > > No, they will charge lots!
> > >
> > > It was not a recall as it did not happen to most T3s.
> > >
> >
> > Not a recall item in the US either.
> >
> >
> > BenT
> >


57
Francesca,

For what it's worth, most choking and bucking problems I've encountered had to do with simple vacuum and exhaust leaks.

I have personally owned more than 30 T3's of which the majority had the MV (2.1 litre Wasseboxer) engine. All ran fine w/o the harness filter attachment. I'm sure this has been mentioned before. Finding the vacuum leaks are relatively easy. I spray carburetor cleaner over all the hose connections and especially around the large intake hoses going in and out of the AFM housing. There is a noticeable change in idling characteristics once the leak has been temporarily blocked by the spray of liquid. Do take some precautions as most carb cleaners are flammable. 

The most difficult to trace problem i encountered which presented itself as "Vanagon syndrome" was exhaust related. I am not sure how this applies to you. I found an exhaust leak upstream from the Oxygen sensor. I initially thought the sensor was at fault. Changed the exhaust gasket eliminated the dilution of the exhaust sample passing over the sensor.

During that process, I obtained AFM's ECU's, patch harnesses... etc. In the end, it was basic automotive troubleshooting. I casual query with my mate who owns a shop which services an average of 5 T3's a day (5 days a week time 52 weeks) revealed that the so called Vanagon syndrome has been remedied with the harness patch once or twice per year at his shop. That translates to 2/1300. Or less than 0.15% of the T3's serviced there. I can't say the figures are exact as the remarks were annecdotal. There are days when there two dozen T3's there but some have alternative powerplants. Nevertheless, the suggestion is to look for basic problems before assuming the problem is a bum AFM or the need for the harness patch or capacitors as a signal filter.


Cheers,

BenT    

Sent from my T3 w/ an AFM

On Jul 10, 2010, at 6:00 PM, Francesca Coles <fcoles6@gmail.com> wrote:

Thanks for the thought, Greg. And thanks a whole lot, Hartmut. 

It would be lovely if fitting the harness solves the bucking/choking problem. I'd be happy enough to fork out good money for a new one if it does. Of course the problem could be caused by something else not so amenable to diagnosis or a cheap fix. Fingers crossed, however.... There have been a couple of times when the choking has been a little alarming, say pulling out into traffic and she won't get up and go.

Francesca.
58
Peter,

Here's some additional info re: Vanagon Syndrome:

http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm

Larry Hamm

Peter Coe wrote:
>
> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>
59
Hi, Ben. Thanks for that - very useful. That's some depth of experience you have there!

Perhaps we may have been too quick to jump on the Vanagon syndrome bandwagon? It's just that the presentation seemed to be classic VS: running fine until had been driving for an hour or two at constant highway speed, then commenced intermittent bucking. I suppose that given Hartmut has been kind enough to lend us his harness we may as well give that a go first, and then proceed to your recommended troubleshooting if we get nowhere. Just so long as it's not VS plus some other issue! But, then again, that's par for the course with an old girl... My mechanic is also very experienced with T3s and could no doubt get to the bottom of the issue if I threw it at him, but better to try and save some cash by attempting some troubleshooting ourselves first.

Francesca.

On Sun, Jul 11, 2010 at 11:29 AM, BenT Syncro <syncro@gmail.com> wrote:

Francesca,

For what it's worth, most choking and bucking problems I've encountered had to do with simple vacuum and exhaust leaks.

I have personally owned more than 30 T3's of which the majority had the MV (2.1 litre Wasseboxer) engine. All ran fine w/o the harness filter attachment. I'm sure this has been mentioned before. Finding the vacuum leaks are relatively easy. I spray carburetor cleaner over all the hose connections and especially around the large intake hoses going in and out of the AFM housing. There is a noticeable change in idling characteristics once the leak has been temporarily blocked by the spray of liquid. Do take some precautions as most carb cleaners are flammable.

The most difficult to trace problem i encountered which presented itself as "Vanagon syndrome" was exhaust related. I am not sure how this applies to you. I found an exhaust leak upstream from the Oxygen sensor. I initially thought the sensor was at fault. Changed the exhaust gasket eliminated the dilution of the exhaust sample passing over the sensor.

During that process, I obtained AFM's ECU's, patch harnesses... etc. In the end, it was basic automotive troubleshooting. I casual query with my mate who owns a shop which services an average of 5 T3's a day (5 days a week time 52 weeks) revealed that the so called Vanagon syndrome has been remedied with the harness patch once or twice per year at his shop. That translates to 2/1300. Or less than 0.15% of the T3's serviced there. I can't say the figures are exact as the remarks were annecdotal. There are days when there two dozen T3's there but some have alternative powerplants. Nevertheless, the suggestion is to look for basic problems before assuming the problem is a bum AFM or the need for the harness patch or capacitors as a signal filter.


Cheers,

BenT

Sent from my T3 w/ an AFM

On Jul 10, 2010, at 6:00 PM, Francesca Coles <fcoles6@gmail.com> wrote:

Thanks for the thought, Greg. And thanks a whole lot, Hartmut.

It would be lovely if fitting the harness solves the bucking/choking problem. I'd be happy enough to fork out good money for a new one if it does. Of course the problem could be caused by something else not so amenable to diagnosis or a cheap fix. Fingers crossed, however.... There have been a couple of times when the choking has been a little alarming, say pulling out into traffic and she won't get up and go.

Francesca.


60
re
"VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?"
 
you don't ask them if that's the deal,
you tell them they are supposed to,
and aren't they in the loop on this ?
lol.
----- Original Message -----
From: Larry Hamm
Sent: Saturday, July 10, 2010 6:41 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Home at Last/AFM Issue

 

Peter,

Here's some additional info re: Vanagon Syndrome:

http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm

Larry Hamm

Peter Coe wrote:
>
> RE the AFM. I do not have the harness fix. Does this mean that the local
> VW dealer here has to install one free of charge?
>