The Neutral/reverse light switch on the automatic is just under the shifter
console. Pry up the top cover and it is easy to check, even jump out if
needed. Often just cleaning and adjusting will make it work. There is a
spring loaded bar on the shift lever that bridges the contacts on the block.
If the reverse lights work the starter contacts usually do also. If it
doesn't start in park, try wiggling, or use neutral. More likely the sudden
failure is the starter.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jeff Lincoln
Sent: Friday, September 28, 2012 10:05 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Vanagon Stranded near Tawas, MI

I just got a call from someone callingme from the Vanagon Resque Squad list
- he is about 3 hours from me.

Said he has an automatic and he thinks his issue is a sensor (neutral safety
switch??? maybe) that isn't allowing the bus to starte because it doesn't
"know" he is in park. I'd like to get this guy somekind of help even if it's
an over the phone "try this or that" situation. Any ideas?

--
Thanks,

Jeff
'85 GL (Gertie)
'78 Bus (Melissa) Patty's Bus