If the engine runs and the transmission is okay, why not have someone
drive it for you? The 70 bug semi-automatic is in no way, shape, or form
an automatic transmission. It is a simple 3 speed + reverse. The oil
pump on the engine simply circulates oil through the torque converter.
The vacuum operated clutch works the same way a pedal operated clutch
does. Simply separates the torque converter from the transmission input
shaft. There was no reason or benefit to run the engine while towing.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM] On Behalf
Of Tom Stone
Sent: Sunday, May 12, 2002 7:00 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: towing a Automatic vanagon in neutral w/ drive wheels on
the ground??

Since the van is only going to be towed 100 miles, what is wrong with
starting the engine and letting it idle in Neutral while it is being
towed?
Wouldn't that keep the pump turning?  I towed a '70 bug convertible with
AutoStickshift a few hundred miles with the engine running and no damage
was
done to the trans.

Tom
'71 Westy, '85 Westy, '91 Carat, '81 VW Pickup