89 VW Vanagon stalling and starting.

certainly sounds like a fuel problem. There are a few things to check.

is there fuel in the tank? and is it clean?

Is there a fuel filter on the delivery line? if so replace it. costs next to nothing.

is there water in the fuel?

See what difference replacing the carby float, spindle and needle makes.

Rockhead will be on a little later, hang around.

It would also be worth looking at the fuel pump. on an old model such as yours the fuel pump could be getting worn. purchasing an electric fuel pump might set you back a hundred. hoo in the fuel lines connect to the battery and your good to go.

Sorry, I slept in fer a change.

Fuel injection will complicate diagnosis, and a fuel pressure gauge for high pressures will be necessary if you are to attempt it yourself.

Is the idle spiking above normal, or fluttering below?

RH

(and yes, change the filter if you have not already)