Karl Mullendore makes a adaptor for the vanagon allowing the use of a TDI gear reduction starter. 

4 years ago I purchased it and a starter.  Dennis installed it along with the 2.3 motor and updated transmission. 

I’m Stil in early stages with the van but wow, that starter really turns that motor over with authority. 

        I’m considering having a spare starter on hand at home but am also considering just keeping the starter info in the bus in case I need one on the road.

The starter I am using is still available from Amazon.  And The adaptor works great. 

So, if I were to be silly and eventually keep a starter here does anyone have a recommendation for a starter or shall I keep on with this one.

Karl, if you are out there do you still have the multi van you put this in back in 2017?  If so how is the starter holding up?

Anyway, I have to give this set up a good thumbs up.
Link to starter
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007ZJ7Z9S <https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007ZJ7Z9S>

Eric Caron