I had to put in a few thoughts for everyone:

I have never had a bad dealing with ANYONE from the vanagon list.  I
haven't dealt with everyone (obviously) but I have had interaction with
most of the 'usual' vendors.

I can understand being cautious about dealing with a single individual
because they aren't a business.  But Boston Bob's shop is a full-blown
business.  He had a million positive endorsements on this list.  Your
average car owner would take their car to a licensed shop without any
recommendations because it's a shop.  Well the same is true for Boston
Bob except he has a million plus positive recommendations on this list.
We don't need hysteria around here.  Boston Bob is top notch - end of
story.

No-one has mentioned our new-comer vendor to the list:  Tiico.  You try
handing old Pete $3600 sometime and then complain to me about a $20
order from a private party.  Know why I gave Pete that much?  Because he
too has a stellar reputation on this list AND he's a genuine business.

When it comes to dealing with individuals you're sometimes rolling the
dice.  That's all there is too it.  Sometimes you might get burned.
Shops screw you out of money too - they just do it within accepted
parameters.

I have probably done over $10,000 in vw-related internet business.  I
have had one bad dealing that cost me $250.  That was a lot of money but
in that $10,000 I spent I know I saved at least that much too so the
$250 is just the cost of doing business.  I've also bought two VWs over
the internet and those deals worked out too.  Why - because I play it
cautious but I still give the other party their agency in the deal.

If you've had a bad dealing with someone it is your right to post your
concern.  You ARE doing fellow listees a favor.  But let's not try
witch-hunting out a well-loved business.  Between personal experience
and the list's recommendations I would happily deal with:

Tiico
Boston Bob
Vanagain
Bus Depot
Fast Forward
Adirondack (not vanagon-specialized; but otherwise awesome)

I would only avoid one business because of the list's recommendations:

GEX

That's all.  Let's keep our emails to endorsements or condemnations
based on experience and leave it at that.  Be fair and people will
usually be fair with you.  Keep your eyes and ears open and you'll do
fine.

Damian