David writes in frustration:
<<<<<<<<
From:    David Raistrick <keen@POLARIS.DIGITAL-GALAXY.NET>

I've not yet measured the current timing setting, as I found the base I
thought would work won't.  something about magnets not sticking to
aluminum heads!:)  Tomorrow, I'll have a machine shop fabricate what I
shall need.
We will be in contact with the owner of the dealership tomorrow, since the
management of the serive department didnt want to take care if it.
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Buying tools is always cheaper than paying the dealer to not fix things ;^)
For future reference, an outfit called ENCO is the cheapest place to buy
machine tools, measuring tools, that sort of stuff.  1-800-USE-ENCO.  I don't
think they have a web page yet.  I've bought tons of stuff from them, service
is usually pretty quick.  For example, standard magnetic base for about $13,
1" dial indicator, about $12 (from my '97 catalog).

On the indicator base problem, some globs of hot glue will secure the magnetic
base anywhere you need it to stick.  Just wipe any oil off the surfaces first.
Pops off pretty easy when you are done.  Works for me.

Good luck getting your money back from the dealer.  Perhaps if you pointed out
that they committed to writing the fact that they charged you for stuff you
didn't actually get and pointed out to them, in a nice way of course, that
this constituted fraud and your next stop will be the local district attorney,
then maybe they will graciously offer you a refund and some free floor mats.
Get someone else to take a peek at the parts in question before you destroy
the evidence that can swear a statement and you've got them dead to rights.
What they did is more than just incompetent, its criminal.  Maybe they will
give you a new Beetle to settle out of court?  Hmmm, this is even better as a
negotiating strategy, remind them that they are liable not only criminally but
you can sue them for damages on top of that.  The double whammy!

Regards,

Carl Turner