It's pretty clear that they don't want the job.
And it can be a tedious and frustrating thing properly rebuilding and
basically restoring one of these engines and all the ancillaries that go
with it.  And once you do a big job like this, you're married to it.  They
probably don't want to deal with the come-backs.  But if they do get the
work, they want to make sure it's worth it.
But still, 16k is way too much.
Sorry I can't provide an answer to your question, I don't know anyone in
Detroit.

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jack Reynaert
Sent: Thursday, February 19, 2015 9:06 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Complete Engine Replacement Cost Estimate

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