Hi Paul - regarding your "no start" problem:
Favourite on these is the antenna ring, around the ignition barrel, it picks up the signal from the chip in the key, and if it doesn't find one then the symptom is that the engine will crank fine, it will usually fire for 1-2 seconds and then die. If this lines up with your symptoms then in this order:
1) Clean the antenna ring contacts - do it thoroughly, as they can be tricky. This is a very common problem on these cars.
2) Try a different key, it may be a dodgy chip. If you don't have a second key, GET ONE ASAP as if you lose it, trying to get a replacement key without one to copy is a real PITA.
3) replace the antenna ring - not too expensive and not difficult.
However, you say in an earlier post that it's like trying to start a car with no battery - this must mean that it isn't cranking, which means that it is NOT the fault described above. However, another common fault on these is that the electrical part of the ignition switch goes faulty, and this can often be intermittent. It is again quite easy to replace, it's separate from the ignition barrel, so no problems with key compatibility etc.
Third thing to think about is the PNP switch on the gearbox. As you know, it will only start in N or P, and the thing that tells it which position the lever is in is the PNP switch - again, it's a fairly common fault on these for this switch to go faulty, especially on cars that have been left to stand for a while. The thing to try is that when it's in a "no start" condition, cycle the gearlever back and forth quite a few times - this can have the effect of cleaning up the contacts, and if it starts afterwards that's your culprit. Again, I believe it's not too hard to change, although I've never had to go near mine (yet).
When it's in a "no start" condition, do you get all the dash lights on before trying to start? If you do, then PNP switch is more likely but if you don't (i.e. it's playing completely dead) then ignition switch becomes hot favourite IMHO.
There are loads of other things it could be, but these are the 3 common faults I know about from having spent years on the VOC V70 forum (where I know you are also a member) so just thought I'd let you know - or remind you if you already knew this.
At least these are fairly simple and cheap things to check out, so hope this helps - let us know how you get on eh?
Cheers!
Some people are like Slinkies - they serve no useful purpose, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them downstairs.
me being in South Brittany & the car being 'up norf' in Durham. I sort of made an offer and the chap agreed 
OH went 
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