I checked with 3 local shops here in Kansas City that have experience on
vanagons.  Two wanted to replace the heads completely (without checking
their condition) for around US $2000.  One wanted $1300 US just to replace
the gaskets.  I figured I could buy a lot of gaskets and tools for $1300, so
beginning Tuesday of next week, I'll be doing it myself.  Wish me luck.
I've never done anything more serious than replace a fuse.

Dave in KC
85 Westy

----- Original Message -----
From: Karl Dawe <kdawe@MUN.CA>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, May 24, 2002 6:15 PM
Subject: Head Gasket Job Costs?

I've got my van in for a head gasket job - I'm not confident enough to do it
myself, though I thought about it.  The mechanic called me today and told me
that it would cost about $1500 Canadian to do the gaskets.  Sounded a little
steep to me, so I thought I'd check it out.  ($1500 Canadian, BTW, works out
to be approximately $1000 USD)

Mechanic says he can do them with the engine in the van.  Costs on the
gaskets are $195 ($130USD) per side from his supplier, but he will use
gaskets that I provide, though he recomends german gaskets.  Even when you
take out the $400 ($260USD) for the gaskets, $1100 ($730USD) seems a bit
steep for the labour charge to me.