My previous '81 did the same thing. I was told it was a worn shift
linkage piece that was NLA for 80-82 vans.  I recall Ken Wilford of
Vanagain recently manufactured something that may be this piece.  But
what do I know?  Look for this on his website: Shift Guide Boot for
80-82 Vanagon, part no. 251711167A.  I am sure others will be more
helpful.

Melissa Mourkas
'84 Westy Honey Bee
Sacramento, CA

On Nov 9, 2009, at 6:12 PM, David Cohen wrote:

> Hi,
>   Can someone explain why the Vanagon doesn't grind into third
> girl  when
> cold, only after the car and fluid warms up?  Is it do to the
> thinning  of
> the gear oil when it warms up?  I don't understand how this affects
> the
> synchromesh after the fluid warms up.
>
> Thanks,
> David