There are some known failures in the shift lever and linkage that could
be causing this. A simple test would be to remove the 2 bolts that hold
the shift rod to the tranny case and drop the rod down out of the way.
Then shift the tranny into the gears by hand, using the plastic ball
that sticks down from the side of the tranny. If the tranny shifts fine
this way then the problem is more likely linkage related.

Mark

David Most wrote:
>
> My '87 is having a gear shifting problem, and as it's my only vehicle, I
> could use some help.  I'll describe the situation briefly, but please ask
> me any questions that might help in determining how to proceed.
> ........
> Question:
>
> What steps can I take to diagnose and/or possibly correct the problem
> (even without diagnosis)?  I'm in New Orleans right now, and I have yet
> to find a mechanic here who knows anything about vanagons.  So, I'd like
> to do as much as I can myself.
>
> Thank you all for your help.
>
> David
>
>