In a message dated 2/27/02 6:15:05 PM, developtrust@COX.NET writes:

<< None of my local shops

will allow anyone to be in their shop (due to "insurance" claims.)

Not only does this make me suspicious, but I have a need to know.

I don't mind buying tools and learning, but I'd rather pay someone who has
done it

and will allow me to participate.

Any advice?

William Polowniak

1989 Vanagon GL

1988 Mercedes 300 SE

>>

William,

I've learned, from some sad experiences, to distrust a garage which will not
let me see what they are doing.  Where I live, Vanagons are extremely rare,
so my absence from the work area at the shop can prove to be quite costly
because of a mechanic's ignorance of the vehicle.  When I need to go to a
shop, I frequent those which are run by men who have come to be my friends
and with whom I share a mutual respect.  The visits to these shops are now
more like social engagements, with the work to be done almost as the
secondary purpose for my stopping by.

Surely in California, the Land of Gearheads, you can find someone who will
accommodate your desires.  Maybe it is the hobbyist down the street who has
been building custom Bugs since he could walk.  Or the guy trying to make his
mortgage payment on his meager earnings at the local VW dealer, moonlighting
in his driveway under the harsh glare of a troublelight.  Or some shop far
off the beaten path.  Or maybe . . .  I know you to be a likable man of more
than a little resourcefulness.  You'll find someone of the right temperament
to help you.

Rich