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SCM
Samba Member
Joined: January 26, 2011
Posts: 3359
Location: Bozeman MT
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 Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 3:18 pm Post subject: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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Somewhat related to my output shaft thread
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=803733&sid=9a5f7a1b124147f7dc12dca7f3e4f580
I just dropped off my work truck at Straight Away Motors here in Bozeman for some minor service. I've been a customer of theirs for over 20 years when they used to work on my wife's two Jettas and my Pathfinder. They saw my van last spring for something and suggested, "you should probably just do this job yourself" - I did, and it saved me $1200. They also once let me take the Jetta home without paying and said, "come back and pay us once you're sure we fixed the problem". An awesome, awesome shop.
Anyway, I asked them about my current issues and whether that's a job they would take on to which they replied, "only because we've already had it in here. We're no longer working on Vanagons or Eurovans that we haven't already seen".
I think that puts it at just one other euro car mechanic that's willing to work on the 'ol van in my town.
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'91 Westfalia GL Automatic (GTA "Turbo" Rebuild w/Peloquin) and 2.3L GoWesty Engine |
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uberaudi
Samba Member
Joined: June 24, 2013
Posts: 625
Location: Hi-top Country
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 3:28 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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Not only does it become a lack of mechanics but also the quality of work of the ones that can fit ya in is pretty much terrible...at least around here. You're better off becoming your own mechanic!
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'84 Adventurewagen 1Z TDI, '08 Audi Avant Quattro 6spd BHW TDI |
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GoEverywhere
Samba Member
Joined: December 13, 2020
Posts: 884
Location: Portland, OR
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 3:31 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| SCM wrote: |
Somewhat related to my output shaft thread
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=803733&sid=9a5f7a1b124147f7dc12dca7f3e4f580
I just dropped off my work truck at Straight Away Motors here in Bozeman for some minor service. I've been a customer of theirs for over 20 years when they used to work on my wife's two Jettas and my Pathfinder. They saw my van last spring for something and suggested, "you should probably just do this job yourself" - I did, and it saved me $1200. They also once let me take the Jetta home without paying and said, "come back and pay us once you're sure we fixed the problem". An awesome, awesome shop.
Anyway, I asked them about my current issues and whether that's a job they would take on to which they replied, "only because we've already had it in here. We're no longer working on Vanagons or Eurovans that we haven't already seen".
I think that puts it at just one other euro car mechanic that's willing to work on the 'ol van in my town. |
Honestly our Vanagons have long since moved on to the "Vintage Vehicle" category. and its a minor miracle that ANYONE will work on them these days. You're probably going to have to find a shop that specializes in classic cars or customs. Or learn to do it yourself.
It sucks for those who aren't mechanically inclined, but its not really a Vanagon or VW specific issue. Nobody on the planet will touch my 1966 Plymouth Satellite either. I have to do it myself. Just part of the trials of owning a classic vehicle. |
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SCM
Samba Member
Joined: January 26, 2011
Posts: 3359
Location: Bozeman MT
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 3:52 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| GoEverywhere wrote: |
You're probably going to have to find a shop that specializes in classic cars or customs. Or learn to do it yourself.
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Well, this shop had an actual Porsche 356 (not a kit car) and some really old Triumph on its lot today. I would say they're cool with other types of classic cars. But, yeah, I've been wondering when the day would come that I can't punt my problems to a pro when it suits me.
I'm willing to take on any job with my van EXCEPT for things requiring the engine or trans to be dropped. That's kinda where I draw a line - I have a decent job and a lot of demands for my time, spending a summer to "learn" how to replace a torque converter seal, find a friend or willing spouse to give up their time to help, etc. all while watching precious summer weekends fly by... and with no recourse but redoing the whole thing if I make a dumb mistake... at this point in my stewardship of the van I'll pay someone for certain jobs. At least if I can find that someone.
The bugger of it is that I use the van like a modern vehicle. Road trips into the boonies with no cell coverage or easy access for a wrecker to save me. I have friends who own classic cars and hotrods who tell me, "meh, all old cars leak fluids, just ignore it". That's fine if you only drive to the local Cars and Coffee or Main Street car shows.
_________________
'91 Westfalia GL Automatic (GTA "Turbo" Rebuild w/Peloquin) and 2.3L GoWesty Engine |
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GoEverywhere
Samba Member
Joined: December 13, 2020
Posts: 884
Location: Portland, OR
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 4:00 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| SCM wrote: |
The bugger of it is that I use the van like a modern vehicle. Road trips into the boonies with no cell coverage or easy access for a wrecker to save me. I have friends who own classic cars and hotrods who tell me, "meh, all old cars leak fluids, just ignore it". That's fine if you only drive to the local Cars and Coffee or Main Street car shows. |
Man, I hear that. My 1980 Vanagon is actually the NEWEST car I've ever owned. I've daily driven classics for almost 30 years now... It takes it's own special kinda crazy to do that I suppose 
And yeah, its easy to ignore issues when it only sees a few miles and you don't need it if something breaks. Its a whole different ballgame when its your main driver and it needs to be dependable! |
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zerotofifty
Samba Member
Joined: December 27, 2003
Posts: 3739
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 4:52 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| GoEverywhere wrote: |
| SCM wrote: |
The bugger of it is that I use the van like a modern vehicle. Road trips into the boonies with no cell coverage or easy access for a wrecker to save me. I have friends who own classic cars and hotrods who tell me, "meh, all old cars leak fluids, just ignore it". That's fine if you only drive to the local Cars and Coffee or Main Street car shows. |
Man, I hear that. My 1980 Vanagon is actually the NEWEST car I've ever owned. I've daily driven classics for almost 30 years now... It takes it's own special kinda crazy to do that I suppose
And yeah, its easy to ignore issues when it only sees a few miles and you don't need it if something breaks. Its a whole different ballgame when its your main driver and it needs to be dependable! |
my vehicles...
1990, 1986, 1980, 1972 (two each) 1970 (two each) 1966, 1965, 1963 (two each) 1961, and 1958. I only consider the 1966 and down as old cars, everything else i consider new. hahahahaha
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Sorry About That Chief.
Give Peace a Chance.
Words to live by. |
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harvgwen
Samba Member
Joined: February 11, 2021
Posts: 291
Location: Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 8:49 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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I think you can also pat yourself on the back for being a good customer. If you were a pain, the reply would have been simply that they donโt work on those anymore.
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1986 Westfalia Vanagon, 2.2 Subaru
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia |
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Abscate 
Samba Member
Joined: October 05, 2014
Posts: 23785
Location: NYC/Upstate/ROW
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 9:56 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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Not trying to harsh the chi but trying to drive any 35-45 year old car without self-maintaining isnt going to work. Eventually, the resources that fit mechanics business models just dry up and they have to move on to struts and brakes for Toyotas.
You can get the vaccine by joining a club and finding the folks who can help you out to keep it on the road, but relying on shops ...that ship has sailed and is still visible , but will disappear over the horizon (apologies to flat earthers)
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๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐บ๐ธ ๐ ๐ ๐ |
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zerotofifty
Samba Member
Joined: December 27, 2003
Posts: 3739
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 10:03 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| Abscate wrote: |
Not trying to harsh the chi but trying to drive any 35-45 year old car without self-maintaining isnt going to work. Eventually, the resources that fit mechanics business models just dry up and they have to move on to struts and brakes for Toyotas.
You can get the vaccine by joining a club and finding the folks who can help you out to keep it on the road, but relying on shops ...that ship has sailed and is still visible , but will disappear over the horizon (apologies to flat earthers) |
Do not disparage flat Earthers, there are a lot of us all around the globe, and we are not putting up with it.
_________________
Sorry About That Chief.
Give Peace a Chance.
Words to live by. |
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Xevin
Samba Member
Joined: January 08, 2014
Posts: 8572
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 10:10 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| zerotofifty wrote: |
my vehicles...
1990, 1986, 1980, 1972 (two each) 1970 (two each) 1966, 1965, 1963 (two each) 1961, and 1958. I only consider the 1966 and down as old cars, everything else i consider new. hahahahaha |
Man you have a stable of 13 vintage cars and assorted water craft on a property in the Bay area of California that can handle that. Right on  you could probably sell all those and move to Mississippi and never pay a dime to those CA libs. Giving California the finger. I moved from CA in 92 and never looked back. Like my grandfather moved from Ireland to the Bay area. Only he didnโt bitch about political shit. Just appreciated the opportunity. I have his Irish passport. ICE would take him these days.
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Keep on Busin'
| 67rustavenger wrote: |
GFY's Xevin and VW_Jimbo!  |
| Clatter wrote: |
| Damn that Xevin... |
| skills@eurocarsplus wrote: |
| I respect Xevin and he's a turd |
| SGKent wrote: |
My God! Xevin and I 100% agree  |
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Xevin
Samba Member
Joined: January 08, 2014
Posts: 8572
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 10:35 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| zerotofifty wrote: |
Do not disparage flat Earthers, there are a lot of us all around the globe, and we are not putting up with it. |
You being in the technological field of semiconductor science and other fabrication aspects of high technology. You now believe and have believed โThe Earth is Flatโ
You have fully discredited yourself and have proven yourself a troll. There will be nothing I will believe, no advice on water cooled or air cooled
VWs, and zero political BS you toss out. Iโll be in your neighborhood in August. We can discuss face to face as people should do civilly. Let me know by PM.
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Keep on Busin'
| 67rustavenger wrote: |
| GFY's Xevin and VW_Jimbo! |
| Clatter wrote: |
| Damn that Xevin... |
| skills@eurocarsplus wrote: |
| I respect Xevin and he's a turd |
| SGKent wrote: |
| My God! Xevin and I 100% agree |
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Xevin
Samba Member
Joined: January 08, 2014
Posts: 8572
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| Posted: Mon Jun 23, 2025 11:00 pm Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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I will add. zerotofifty who owns 13 vintage VW's, watercraft, property in the bay area of California, and was successful in the Silicon Valley. Dude uses The Samba daily and won't kick in a few bones to be a premium member is jive. I'm embarrassed for him. Wow.
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Keep on Busin'
| 67rustavenger wrote: |
| GFY's Xevin and VW_Jimbo! |
| Clatter wrote: |
| Damn that Xevin... |
| skills@eurocarsplus wrote: |
| I respect Xevin and he's a turd |
| SGKent wrote: |
| My God! Xevin and I 100% agree |
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jslmc1
Samba Member
Joined: December 14, 2005
Posts: 24
Location: juneau, AK
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 12:13 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| Im spoiled with No Name, but at least you have Import Palace nearby? They did the rear main on my Vanagon in 2003 still going strong! |
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Wildthings
Samba Member
Joined: March 13, 2005
Posts: 52284
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 12:22 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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Our local independent VW/Subaru shop wouldn't work on Vanagons, except for longtime customers, 30 years ago. Having owned our 91 since it was new and having experienced all kinds of water leaks and other problems almost from day one, and found parts to be extremely expensive and very often unavailable I didn't expect to be able to keep a Vanagon running for very long between poor reliability and high cost. With my wife driving around 35K miles each year I figured it would get it's visit to the crusher in six years or so from new.
In my opinion the internet and it's search engines, along with companies that sell better than OEM parts, like SS cooling pipes, really saved the Vanagon. |
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4Gears4Tires
Samba Member
Joined: October 08, 2018
Posts: 4142
Location: MD
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 6:12 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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A video series I'm watching of a couple biking from Patagonia to Alaska mentioned "meeting a french couple in their old 4x4 VW van." I was excited. Then the shot cut to the door of a T4. I was disappointed and I said to my girlfriend, "that's a T4, that's not old!" And then I realized that yeah, that's probably 25 years old.
| zerotofifty wrote: |
| Do not disparage flat Earthers, there are a lot of us all around the globe, and we are not putting up with it. |
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'87 Syncro Ferric Oxyhydroxide Superleggera Edition
'85 Westy Sciuridae Domus Edition |
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Phishman068
Samba Member
Joined: February 19, 2007
Posts: 1996
Location: Pittsburgh PA (ish)
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 6:37 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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There will continue to be less and less folks willing to touch these, and when you find a mechanic that will- You should absolutely do everything you can to keep them. That means buying parts through them (unless they ask you to source the parts) instead of sourcing the parts yourself to "save money", working with their timeline flexibly, etc etc etc.
These vehicles are complex, they're unreliable, and they're hard to work on.
They are NOT the same as other similar aged vehicles.
The number one reason mechanics won't work on them before- CUSTOMERS.
So, don't treat this like dropping off your jeep to the dealer, it's simply not the same.
There's also plenty of bad parts out there that are the only option. If you ask the mechanic to replace your syncro fuel tank sender for instance and the only option is a JP group one, know that you're either paying them for HOURS of calibrating it, or you're getting it back inaccurate. It's absolutely not fair to expect them to do that repair at a flat rate, and when you complain that it's not right, especially if you sourced the part- the part isn't the problem, the mechanic isn't the problem, You, and you're expectations are.
You Gota have modern expectations for what they can possibly do for your non modern vehicle.
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http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=559766&highlight=winter+rust
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=482402&highlight=sunroof+syncro
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=569774
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=6864936#6864936
"Along with the ability to go fast, one looses the desire to hurry." |
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zerotofifty
Samba Member
Joined: December 27, 2003
Posts: 3739
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 7:29 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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chill out xevin, good grief.
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Sorry About That Chief.
Give Peace a Chance.
Words to live by. |
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4Gears4Tires
Samba Member
Joined: October 08, 2018
Posts: 4142
Location: MD
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 9:23 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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I dunno if he missed the joke or was trying to continue the joke.
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'87 Syncro Ferric Oxyhydroxide Superleggera Edition
'85 Westy Sciuridae Domus Edition |
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skills@eurocarsplus
Samba Peckerhead
Joined: January 01, 2007
Posts: 17827
Location: sticksville, ct.
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 9:40 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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| SCM wrote: |
| We're no longer working on Vanagons or Eurovans that we haven't already seen" |
I can relate with that. I can't speak for them, but here is my wild ass guess...
shops are sick and tired of dealing with clapped out cars that people with no money or no understanding what it takes to make it even semi-reliable.
the minute you touch something on some old shitbox the general public drags in they expect you to own it from cradle to grave and will bitch about every last fucking thing in perpetuity.
add to that, once you "get into it" it's 98% torn down to a point where it can't be moved without some sort of reassembly and parts are 3 weeks away. now, you have a choice to put it back together again to move it, or let it rot in a bay/on a lift and cost you 3k/day in lost revenue.
so imagine picking up the phone to "HEY! I just bought a vanagon and...." just to have your ass pucker knowing that you're going to waste your time looking at it to write an 8k estimate the person won't buy.
it gets old, so therefore many places are pulling back from the older stuff
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| gprudenciop wrote: |
my reason for switching to subaru is my german car was turning chinese so i said fuck it and went japanese....... |
| Jake Raby wrote: |
| Thanks for the correction. I used to be a nice guy, then I ruined it by exposing myself to the public. |
| Brian wrote: |
| Also the fact that people are agreeing with Skills, it's a turn of events for samba history |
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riceye
Samba Member
Joined: March 09, 2006
Posts: 1694
Location: Caledonia, WI
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| Posted: Tue Jun 24, 2025 9:43 am Post subject: Re: One less Vanagon mechanic (soon) |
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That's a shame. I agree that qualified help in fringe locales may dwindle.
Looks like Auto Stop is still open on E Main. I've frequently seen Vanagons in their lot when in town. We visit annually and a few years back had an issue with a sealing plug in a transaxle output flange popping out visiting friends in Cashmere, WA. Made it back to Bozeman and made the repair in my daughter/son-in-law's driveway. I needed a new plug ($3 part) but didn't want to wait on shipping. Randy had them on hand and didn't gouge me on the price. I have not needed to have them actually work on my rig, but I guess I would feel rather comfortable if needed. I hope they will continue to offer service.
Did I read a while back that Larry in Livingston is no longer servicing Vanagons?
_________________
'87 Westy Weekender - daily driver on salt-free roads
There's gonna be some changes made.
โI find that things usually go well right up until the moment they don't.โ - Ahwahnee
"Quality isn't method. It's the goal toward which the method is aimed." - Socrates, later quoted by R.M. Pirsig |
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