I checked with 3 local shops here in Kansas City that have experience on vanagons. Two wanted to replace the heads completely (without checking their condition) for around US $2000. One wanted $1300 US just to replace the gaskets. I figured I could buy a lot of gaskets and tools for $1300, so beginning Tuesday of next week, I'll be doing it myself. Wish me luck. I've never done anything more serious than replace a fuse. Dave in KC 85 Westy ----- Original Message ----- From: Karl Dawe <kdawe@MUN.CA> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> Sent: Friday, May 24, 2002 6:15 PM Subject: Head Gasket Job Costs?
I've got my van in for a head gasket job - I'm not confident enough to do it myself, though I thought about it. The mechanic called me today and told me that it would cost about $1500 Canadian to do the gaskets. Sounded a little steep to me, so I thought I'd check it out. ($1500 Canadian, BTW, works out to be approximately $1000 USD) Mechanic says he can do them with the engine in the van. Costs on the gaskets are $195 ($130USD) per side from his supplier, but he will use gaskets that I provide, though he recomends german gaskets. Even when you take out the $400 ($260USD) for the gaskets, $1100 ($730USD) seems a bit steep for the labour charge to me. |
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