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