SOLVED -- Stranded, 86 2WD manual with Subie won't start

[figborg]

I'm at the beach in Rhode Island and out of blue the van won't start. Two guys tried to jump start the battery but that goes not seen to be the issue. When I put the key in the ignition and turn it it makes a slight clicking sound, very faint. Alternator belt is fine. The clucking is louder in the back, by the alternator but not super loud.

Could it be the ignition?

The Vanaru kit/engine I have was installed last summer along with a new clutch and rebuilt transmission.

I can't really search The Samba because I don't have good cell coverage here.

To make matters worse, a bee just stung my hand (I'm not allergic though).

Murphy's Law all around.
_________________
-- PF
Providence, RI
1986.5 Westy camper (G year code, grey interior), 2WD, manual transmission, Subaru conversion by Vanaru. Spoiled rotten.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=662374

[connorsvw2]

Do you have a hot start relay/solenoid installed (classic vw weakness)? Will it jump start ( weak battery)? Assuming yes and no, switch is a good thought. I always carry a spare ignition switch because I've had several fail like this.
_________________
'85 Westy Wolfsburg camper/2002 2.5 Subaru since 2003.
'85 GTI 1.8L 1-owner 8v-gave up on 9A 2.0L 16v transplant. Keeping her stock!
'99 Passat 1.8T Variant-AKA "The Money Pit". Still limping along...
'09 Subaru Outback XT 5-speed, 245 hp rocket (wife's car)

[figborg]

[tjet]

Did you remove & reconnect the wires that go to the starter?

Be sure to disconnect the battery first

[connorsvw2]

You did mention the failed jump start-my bad. I don't know how to bypass the switch with jumper wire(s)-perhaps someone can chime in. You would need to immediately disconnect the starter jumper wire to prevent it from remaining engaged when the motor starts. You might consider really jiggling the switch repeatedly and hope something makes contact enough to start. I don't recommend trying to jump across the starter solenoid while you are under the car for obvious reasons
_________________
'85 Westy Wolfsburg camper/2002 2.5 Subaru since 2003.
'85 GTI 1.8L 1-owner 8v-gave up on 9A 2.0L 16v transplant. Keeping her stock!
'99 Passat 1.8T Variant-AKA "The Money Pit". Still limping along...
'09 Subaru Outback XT 5-speed, 245 hp rocket (wife's car)

[figborg]

[figborg]

Well, AAA came and it seems like it was the battery after all. We got a proper jump start and we are on the road again. Will install a new battery this week, easy enough.
Met some cool people surfing the José hurricane waves in RI. Not a bad day in all.
I did go to GoWesty's site while I waited and bought a couple of ignition switches to be on the safe side in the future.
Cheers you all,
P.
_________________
-- PF
Providence, RI
1986.5 Westy camper (G year code, grey interior), 2WD, manual transmission, Subaru conversion by Vanaru. Spoiled rotten.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=662374

[[email protected]]

He he good to hear. Once tou got new battery make sure you are getting a charge on it. With van running you should be at 14.2-14.5v