so not a good idea.
I have taken apart auto trans from Vanagons that have done this or been towed while in park, not pretty inside.
if it is running and shifting, it is OK for now.
I would flush the trans a few times to get any particles out of it that might clog the inner workings.

df

----- Original Message ----
From: Jeff Lincoln <magikvw@GMAIL.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Thursday, May 1, 2008 9:19:12 AM
Subject: Re: Transmission, Automatic, Question

Mark,

I can only tell you from my experience. I did this once - right after having
the engine reinstalled. Things weren't running right but I had to get the
bus home - so my 280+ mile trip from Grand Rapids, MI to Port Huron, MI was
done having to put the bus in neutral and turn the key off and on every few
minutes (to reset the ECU). All was going well until about halfway through
the trip I accidentaly put it in Reverse. Scary - fish tailing tires
screeching - etc. Good news is I reacted quickly and got it into neutral and
welll over a year later I have seen no adverse effects.

That all being said I can also say it's obviously not a good idea.

--
Thanks,

Jeff
'90 Carat (Grover)
'86 (We call this one Parts)
'78 Bus (Melissa) Patty's Bus