My 81 240D manual has the same problem. I find that waiting for a few seconds after starting, and then shifting into reverse very s-l-o-w-l-y will usually work. But I'm going to try the 2nd then reverse trick now as well and see how that works.

- Peter.

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2021 Chevrolet Spark
Formerly...
2000 GMC Sonoma
1981 240D 4spd stick. 347000 miles. Deceased Feb 14 2021
2002 Kia Rio. Worst crap on four wheels
1981 240D 4spd stick. 389000 miles.
1984 123 200
1979 116 280S
1972 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1971 108 280S