Hi all,

I'm afraid it will be a while before I do anything on this Listserv but ask
for advice, thanks to all for your patience.  I have another question (what
else?).
I have taken the plunge, I made an offer wich was accepted on a 1990
Vanagon GL.  I am soon to be no longer a Wanabus, but a graduate newbie.
I had the car pre-checked by a vw mechanic, it was in good condition
generally but hasn't been serviced regularly.  It needs (other than small
cosmetic stuff):

1.  Font Brakes (rotors, pads) and Rear Brakes (shoes, drums, wheel
cylinders).  The mech said $7-$800 to get it done.

2.  Full Engine Service/ Tune up.  Mech said ~$225.

3.  Full Transmission Service, the transmission was leaking at pan and
flonge seals, around cover.  Mech said ~$300.

I'll be driving the Van up the coast to Oregon from San Diego, so these
things I want to have fixed before I leave.  I would do the brakes myself
(newbie, yes- but willing to learn) but my toolbox is a long way from
SoCal.
My questions- do these prices sound right for the area?  The engine and
tranny services should be done at a vw place, but can brake shops like
Mieneke etc. do the brake job, and do it well?  Should I in fact get those
engine/tranny services done in San Diego or can it wait for Portland, OR- a
place I know much better-?

Thanks again, the advice I have received so far from everyone has been
invaluable.

Ryan Fryar
fryarm.eou.edu