In a message dated 95-11-16 20:00:30 EST, wesn@eskimo.com (Wes
Neuenschwander) writes:

> Since the 
>major cost here is the labor (like in 4.0-4.5 hours!) and the shop rates 
>don't vary *that* much (well, some, but the cheaper ones also seem pretty 
>unfamiliar with vanagons/VW),

Familiarity with Vanagons is important to me.  I would be just (maybe more)
as concerned with the mechanic's experience with Vanagons as I would be about
the part itself.  Many shops wouldn't even know how to refill the Vanagon's
coolant!

>So, fellow vanagoneers, what's been your experience with the various
>brands of (new/rebuilt) water pumps?  Any suggestions for brands to look
>for - or look *out* for?  

I've had 2 water pumps (1 on each Vanagon) replaced.  Each time by a VW
dealer.  I didn't inquire about their use of rebuilt or new, but both hav
many miles (like 30-50K) on them now, and I haven't had a problem.

Jim Davis
87 Syncro
88 Wolfsburg