That dealer is obviously telling you they don't want to work on your
van. It shouldn't cost too much more to get the engine replaced. Book
time for head gasket replacement is 10.6 hours. If head are replaced
this time goes down as it includes inspecting and re-facing valves and
seats, (Mitchell calls in "Valve Grind Complete"). Add the cost of the
gaskets, tune-up parts , and anti-freeze and an oil change and there is
the estimate. Extra time may be needed due the exhaust.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM] On Behalf
Of Michael Martens
Sent: Saturday, May 03, 2003 10:09 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: head gasket replacement

A dealer I live near in Chicago wants $3300.00 to replace both head
gaskets
on my 1991 vanagon.  I have seen quotes as low as $300.00 per side
listed
here.
What's going on!!  Would some kind and knowledgeable member of this list
give me
the name of a place in Chicago to get this done for a more reasonable
price.
By the way, the $3300.00 did not include new heads.

1991 Vanagon Caret
Michael P Martens
mikeym@ameritech.net