I guess ignorancee is bliss.  In both my '85 and '90 Westie's the PO had
installed the batteries (starter and aux) with the terminals toward the rear
of the Vanagon.  I understand that the factory install is to put the
terminals toward the front, consequently the access problem.  With the
terminals to the rear the access with jumper cables (or for anything else)
is very easy.  BTW, if the screws that hold the cover on the starter battry
compartment 'go missing' the flap of carpet that goes over it tends to hold
the cover in place quite well.