After much debate and speculation over the flywheel issue, I decided to see
for myself.  BTW, the problem is my Ford 2.3 engine adapter kit came with a
200mm flywheel, while the Vanagon uses a 228.  I went to my local vdub
supply house and borrowed a used 228mm flywheel to compare against the 200mm
Esslinger shipped me.  The ring gear diameter is identical.  The tooth count
and pitch is also the same.  The teeth on the 200mm flywheel are actually
longer, giving the starter more contact area.  So the only drawback I can
see now is I have to buy a new, smaller pressure plate and clutch disc.  Too
bad, cause I found a "like new" 228 pplate and disc in the junkyard.
One more word on the Esslinger kit - The flywheel sent to me was
refurbished, not new.  I could see nicks in the teeth from previous starter
gear contacts.