I second GMB.

>Verne--
>
>Both are NOT good mechanics. One of them is looking out for your interests,
>while the other is so shortsighted he probably can't see past his nose.
>
>If you aren't passing smog, and your van has 180k on it, there is no doubt
>the heads (valves, guides, etc) are worn out.
>
>While prima fascia it may seem "stupid" to replace the entire motor when
>(on the surface) only the heads are worn out, every other wear part in your
>motor has 180k on it, and is near then end of its service life.
>
>The mechanic who is encouraging you to throw some of your retirement money
>at these heads will see you back soon to throw even more money when the
>bottom end goes.
>
>Buy a motor, and be glad yours lasted 180k.
>
>G. Matthew Bulley
>Bulley-Hewlett & Associates
>www.bulley-hewlett.com
>Cary, NC USA
>888.468.4880 tollfree
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From:   Verne Ball [SMTP:vball@SOCRATES.BERKELEY.EDU]
>Sent:   Monday, May 17, 1999 5:25 AM
>To:     vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject:        '87 vanagon - new heads or new engine? help!
>
>I have an '87 Vanagon with 180k.  The heads are real bad and it won't pass
>CA smog test.  I don't know enough to tell if these are related.
>
>One mechanic told me I should go ahead and replace the whole engine since
>it would not cost that much more than a rebuild.  Another mechanic said
>that was stupid, and they both seem like good mechanics.
>
>What to do?
>
>-Verne

Dave & Sherrie
Allentown,PA
           zzzzzzzzzz__
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