Mark,

I've only worked with Mechanic's who agree to this approach.  There are a
lot of good mechanics who are willing, but finding them can be the trick.  I
suggest you start with a foreign auto parts store, asking the guys behind
the counter if they know of any mechanics who fit your specifications.

Then, set up an "interview" process, and "hire" the mechanic based on your
gut feeling.  Start with a smaller task, asking what he or she charges per
hour to supervise you while you do a brake job on your van. (limited
quantities of beer supplied while you do the work).  Good way to check their
personality.  While you do the interview, check out their garage, ask if you
can borrow their tools... do they have air tools?

You have a good plan... and frankly, I've learn a ton with this type of
relationship.  And I've also saved a ton!  I did the same thing when I
restored my 84 Westy with the auto body guy, and now he and his wife are
joining me and my wife on a cruise vacation next month.
I typically pay in cash, between $40 and $50 per hour, and pay for all
parts.  They have no outlay of funds, and appreciate cash.  If they do the
bulk of the work, and I help (and what mechanic doesn't appreciate a
helper), I tend to pay more on the high side of $50 per hour.  FOREGET ABOUT
BOOK TIME, BY THE WAY!

I've continue to give these guys referral business, which they also
appreciate!

This has worked great for me, as I'm pretty mechanical.  Most mechanical
people get intimidated by the task, as the lack of experience in freeing a
stubborn bolt, or knowing the proper procedures to circumvent a complex task
can lead one to take their van to a local garage for the work to be done by
who knows!

My 2 cents!

Jack R.
84 Westy Wolfie (owned and wrenched on since 1987)
N. of Detroit

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Mark L. Hineline
Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2010 4:29 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Good collaboration with a mechanic?

I'd like to develop a good working relationship with a VW mechanic:
someone to whom I can trust jobs that I can't or shouldn't do (I live
in an apartment complex where working on a vehicle is severely frowned
upon), but who doesn't get his nose out of joint if I do a lot of work
myself.

Has anyone worked out that kind of relationship?

I'd like to take my Vanagon to San Diego Westy, if that's the sort of
place that tolerates owner repairs.

Mark