Our friends mechanic indicated that a complete engine replacement was necessary for their 1990 Westy.
The body is in excellent shape, and the transmission was replaced about 2 years ago.

Their mechanic is estimating a cost of $16,000 for the job, which I feel is extremely overpriced.
Seeing that a rebuild 2.1L can be had for around $4000 or less.  Labor should be under $1000.

Does anyone know a good VW mechanic in the Detroit area that could do the complete job for closer to $5000?

This kind of price gouging is why fewer and fewer Vanagons are around!

Can anyone quote a recent complete replacement cost they paid for: motor and labor 2.1L WBX to 2.1L WBX?

Thank you!

Jack