There was a post recently with someone asking for info on a
good mechanic in the bay area.  I live in san francisco and
here are 2 shops i use:

One shop is in Berkeley...run by steve nechodom...the shop
is called Karmaknik  510 548 4494.  Steve is a meticulous
and experienced mechanic.  He has over 20 years experience
with vanagons.  He has done hundreds of head gasket
replacements and can do anything...cheaper and better than
most.  Tell him steve with the syncro sent you!

I also use Volks Cafe in santa cruz.  They have a good
facility and lots of experience and knowledge.  They did my
transaxle rebuild.  There was a little problem/concern with
the tranny and the clutch after the rebuild.  Volks Cafe
pulled out all the stops to investigate and rectify the
problems quickly and at no cost to me.  I was very
impressed.  This is the true measure of a shop  ... do they
stand behind their work... and these guys pass with flying
colors!  i don't have their phone no...but it's on their
website i think...
http://www.volks-motorsports.com/