While test driving a customer's '85 manual Vanagon this week I discovered an
easy way to roll start the van.  The battery I put in for test purposes
turned out to not hold a charge (enough to just turn the starter over a half
a crank, but not to start).  So I was parked on a 15-20 deg grade in my
driveway and had an idea.  Why not push in the clutch and take off the brake
and roll start the van in reverse?  Tried it and it works great.  Turn the
ignition on, allow the van to roll back about 6 feet and pop the clutch (she
started right up everytime).  Just wanted to let you folks know in case you
had to do an emergency start with a bad battery or you are having the
notorious starter solenoid problems.
Also if you are push starting the van moving forward I always use 3rd gear
since the gear ratios allow the van to push start easier.
Just FYI.
Ken Wilford
Van-Again
John 3:16