Is there a way to get a VCR on L1 or L2 without a remote control?

I can't get to L1 or L2 by changing the vcr from channel 2 either. Also, I had a universal remote that; when I pressed the input on it would change the vcr to L1 and L2. But, that remote is history and I have a hughes direct tv universal remote, but can not get to L1 or L2 with it. Thanks for any help.