In my opinion brake jobs are the biggest racket going.  My 2 cents (and the
way I do it)... remove front tires examine rotors...if there are no deep
groves just buy new pads, get the life time warranty ones for about $17
bucks.  With 13mm socket/wrench in hand and in about 20 minutes you can drop
in new pads and you are off and running.   Don't forget to buy Permatex,
they use to include it with the pads but now a days its either rock hard or
missing.

There is nothing hard about doing brakes. Once on travel, I had to drop in a
new set of pads while dressed in suit and tie...its that easy.  in fact
using the VW jack it will take you longer to get it up  on the jack stands
than it will to change the pads.

If you need the rotors turned you can pop them off and the local auto parts
store will turn them for about $5 each side.

Jere
90 GL
88 GL

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robie Pierce" <robie19@HOME.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, December 17, 2000 7:24 AM
Subject: $$$Brake Job$$

> My 91 vanagon failed state inspection due to front brake pads. Midas
> gave me aa price $480 for pads and turn the rotors. Went to my Vanagon
> shop. Original quote 240 new pads & turn the rotors. Then the call " you
> need calipers, new rotors, pads, new bearings" price $1000 !  Gulp,...
> well I got the Van back and my credit card is smokin at $1033. Rotors
> $118 ea., Calipers, $129 ea.,  bearings & seals $100. Labor $319. I know
> calipers, same VW part # from Bus Depot are $79 ea. 60% mark up !!
> Some out there will say do it yourself, and wish I could, but disabled
> in a WC. I have no real recourse, but put this into stats for a "high
> end" brake job!
>
> Looking for night work ! !
>