IF it is that ..
real simple.
first level ..wiggle shifter a lot ..
try Neutral and Park.

next level up ..remove console cover ...I think that starts with a tiny
allen screw on the top of the shifter.
once that cover is out of the way ..
see two big fat wires on the switch ..
connect them directly or use a jumper wire with aligator clips etc.
  it'll start 'anytime' then ..even in gear.

IF that's it.  Often wiggling will get it to work.
Could just as easily be a starter or other electrical issue.

Scott
www.turbovans.com

On 9/28/2012 7:05 PM, Jeff Lincoln wrote:
> I just got a call from someone callingme from the Vanagon Resque Squad list
> - he is about 3 hours from me.
>
> Said he has an automatic and he thinks his issue is a sensor (neutral
> safety switch??? maybe) that isn't allowing the bus to starte because it
> doesn't "know" he is in park. I'd like to get this guy somekind of help
> even if it's an over the phone "try this or that" situation. Any ideas?
>
> --
> Thanks,
>
> Jeff
> '85 GL (Gertie)
> '78 Bus (Melissa) Patty's Bus
>