>  The mechanic called this evening, and quoted me a
> price of $625.00!  This was $230+ for the part itself, $245 labor, and the
> balance for 2 hoses.  He'll try to have it done tomorrow morning.  (I was
> told this was a one-hour job!!)
>
> Well, I don't have the money for that right now, so I asked if there was a
> way he could just bypass the heater core.  He said he'll "try" to do that
> (YIKES).  I'm guessing I'm still gonna owe the $245 for labor, but that's
> more manageable right now.
>
> Are there any list members in the Philadelphia area?  Specifically central
> Bucks County?  If so, can you recommend a knowledgeable Vanagon mechanic?

That quote is just incredible!!!  I sell new original-equipment heater cores
for $69, and if not a one hour job, it's certainly not more than a couple of
hours.  Yes, I do know of a mechanic not too far from you (upper Montgomery
county).  He's maybe an hour away, but does have a loaner car available by
appointment so you wouldn't be stuck there if you didn't want to be. (Ask
for the New Beetle loaner if it's available! :-)   Best and most honest VW
mechanic I know of.  Also will install parts provided by you (or me),
although he does charge a little over his standard labor rate (which is
about $42/hr) if the customer is providing parts, since he is not making the
profit on the parts. His name is Tim Snyder, the company is Lehmanns Auto,
in Bechtelsville PA (near Pottstown), phone number 610-367-7045.  Tell him I
sent you. (Usual disclaimers, no affiliation, YMMV, etc. etc.)  You could
also try Bill at CSE in Oreland, Pa, perhaps a bit closer to you, haven't
dealt with him for years and he is a bit expensive, but he always struck me
as honest and very experienced.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  http://www.busdepot.com