Arlene,
Call German Transaxle in Bend - 541.382.7723 and talk to them.  They're an excellent rebuilder and they do automatics.
Richard

> Date: Tue, 26 Mar 2013 20:50:09 -0700
> From: arlensondergaard@GMAIL.COM
> Subject: Transmission mechanic
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> I have a 1987 Wolfsburg vanagon that needs some Transmission TLC.
> I earlier (month ago)  had a repeated "Clunking" while driving   My
> mechanic said it could not be the transmission and  was probably the vent
> hoses for my gas tank.  Since he dropped my gas tank and changed them, I
> have not heard the clunking  sound.  BUT, today after stopping at a stop
> sign and starting off again,   the van completely died except for a
> loud clacking that slowly stopped.  I restarted van and got home(withing a
> mile).
> 
> Transmission fluid level ok.  But, this time Im going with my gut feeling
> to get the transmission checked or rebuilt.
> I called AA Transaxel who says he doesn't do automatic transmissions.
> He directed me to Eds Transmission in Northgate near Seattle/Tacoma.
> 
> The question:  Is there a trustworthy  VW savvy Transmission expert in the
> Portland area?
> I do not want to drive to Seattle with this  problem.
> Default is to start driving N. and somewhere around Longview call AAA ( I
> have premium coverage) and have the van towed to Northgate.
> 
> Thanks,
> Arlene Sondergaard
> (same person, new e-mail)
> Washougal, Wa