Dennis, it will crank the engine over without the key being on, it just won't start it, so I provided incorrect information, I see now.  The starter motor is activated by the button, but not the ignition unless the key is on.  Same answer, or different?  mcneely

---- Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@hotmail.com> wrote:
> Sounds like it was wired using the power for the ignition as the source. Since the ignition circuit is not designed to carry that load, including the circuit within the fuse block you may be adding future failures. Yes these things at times can be helpful and that is why test switches and alligator clips are available.
>
> Dennis
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Dave Mcneely
> Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2013 2:48 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Re: Replacing Starter on 85 Vanagon - Jackstands or Ramps ?
>
> ---- Scott Daniel - Turbovans <scottdaniel@TURBOVANS.COM> wrote:
> >
> > while you're in there,
> > consider installiong a starter trigger cheater wire to hide in the
> > engine compartment..
> > that's awfully handy for self-rescue, starter testing, compression testsetc.
>
> Scott, I had my mechanic add a push button starter switch in the engine compartment.  He replaced the ignition switch also, which had a seam on the plastic housing that had spread open (how that would happen I do not know).  However, the key has to be on for the button to activate the starter.  That obviates someone using the button to start the van and drive it away without a key, but if it does not bypass the ignition switch, how does it help me to self rescue?  I should have gotten that explanation from him, but I did not at the time.  Can you help me to understand how this thing works and what the pros and cons are?
>
> Thanks, mcneely
>

--
David McNeely