Hi David,

Here is the link I got directly from Karl. 

Eric 

SR0408X, 1.9 KW starter, TDI: https://www.ebay.com/itm/290368206614 <https://www.ebay.com/itm/290368206614>
SR0425N, 1.4 KW starter, gas: https://www.ebay.com/itm/300537543977 <https://www.ebay.com/itm/300537543977>

Both fit the same, just different power output. These are the aftermarket versions I have used. Bosch also sells new gas starters as SR0425N, no core. Rock Auto and others sell them.

> On Feb 16, 2023, at 9:01 PM, David Boan <dboan@OUTLOOK.COM> wrote:
> 
> Thanks for all the prompt replies. I took a look at the Westy Ventures website, and if I understand, the adaptor is so I can use a newer '96 - '03 VW starter. The Bosch SR0408X/409X seems to be what is recommended. Is this starter what most people would suggest, again, thinking in terms of subzero weather?
> 
> It looks like an OEM plug is also needed? Does this all just bolt on?
> 
> Dave B
> Boise
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@comcast.net> 
> Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2023 4:28 PM
> To: David Boan <dboan@OUTLOOK.COM>
> Cc: Vanagon List <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Subject: Re: Cold Weather starting
> 
> Hi David,
> 
>       I would recommend Karl’s adaptor that works with either a TDI or gas gear reduction starter.  Same advantages as GW or the ones Dennis mentioned now on Amazon but these are easier to get on the road if needing a replacement.  
> 
> I have one on my 85 and love it.  And, am about to put one on my 84.
> 
> Eric Caron 
> 
> 
> 
> 
>> On Feb 16, 2023, at 6:21 PM, David Boan <dboan@OUTLOOK.COM> wrote:
>> 
>> Hello Vanagon Types
>> 
>> I just returned from a short trip to our local mountains to do some snowshoeing. My van is well setup for driving in snow although not a syncro. The challenge I face is not the snow but getting the van to start in sub-zero temps. The other morning at 8 AM it was -10f, and it is not uncommon to be much colder than that. When my starter battery starts to give up I can jump it from my two 100ah house batteries, but it still cranks slowly and took me more than a half hour to get it started.
>> 
>> I am wondering if I would be better off with a gear reduction starter. I read that GoWesty recommends the high output gear reduction starter for operating in sub-zero temps. So, my question is, does anyone have experience with this starter? For those of you in the cold climates, does this seem like a good investment?
>> 
>> Dave B
>> Boise
>> '85 Westy
>