Hey Dave,
I'm in Walnut Creek. I've just purchased my van recentely, but, I spent a lot
of time looking for it, and one of the people I talked to was Cobe Smallens at
Valley Wagon Works in San Anselmo- Marin County. I actually drove by his place
one day on the way to San Geronemo, stopped in and said hi. 20 or so busses on
his lot. Very nice guy. I gotta tell you, every time I called to ask him (once
a week or so for a couple of months!), for leads or advice when I was looking
for a van, he was more than willing to talk at length about what to look for
on each particular year, etc. If he was busy, he always called back. So, while
I've never used him, when I need a big repair done in the future, I'm heading
to his shop.
415-457-5628. If you've never driven through this area of Marin County, I
gotta tell you, it's a trip. VW vans everywhere. Not counting the 20 or so on
Cobe's lot, I must have seen 20 others just driving down Sir Francis Drake
Blvd.
If you don't find abetter place close by than the dealer in Walnut Creek, let
me know what you think of their service.
David 91 Multi

In a message dated 98-08-26 21:12:29 EDT, you write:

<< It looks to be time, at 146k, for the head gaskets and possibly heads to be
replaced.

 I am open to all suggestions on positive experiences anyone has had in the SF
Bay Area.  My Dealer, Dirito Brothers  VW in Walnut Creek has quoted me $1200
to $2400.

 Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

 Dave Thayer
 Dst7979@jps.net >>