Date:         Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:51:53 -0400
Reply-To:     Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Shout out to Ken and Dennis  The RARE vW bus vender
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

The recent post about why do you purchase from Amazon reminded me of the good old days of purchasing from our venders like Vanagain.  One of the best things was that I could ask questions about the products especially about correct fit or how to install. 

        I realize that now, Ken is the only vender that I can still do that with.  He is incredibly generous with his time.  I really don’t know how he does it and runs a family business as well.

In tech emergencies I have called Ken and he has answered the phone and helped.  Last time was when a friend was helping to install Ken’s power steering rack. It was a simple thing but we would not have figured it out without Ken answering the call. 

        I try not to call unless I need to.  Another time when a friend was here we were stuck and called Dennis.  And sure enough he talked us through the problem.

In the old days I used to talk to folks at Bus depot, but though I really appreciate the business, and I hope to drop in to visit one day, the folks on the phone can’t help with issues, as they don’t know VW buses.  And, sadly the site is very hard for me to use. They do however, have a lot of great bus items and nice to have them on my coast!
Van Cafe, was great before it was sold.  Peter and others there talked me through many part installations.But, that ended.

I even once got tech help from GW, but they don’t seem to do work there any longer. Though to be fair, They were very helpful in emailing information back about specific products like how to update the engine management system. 

So, I really appreciate that Ken sends out help videos, has useful articles and info on his site, and I don’t know how he does it, but even answered the phone and gave help directly.

I do miss the days of calling the different venders to make orders, and get personal direction on the products.

I think they mean well, but other then Ken I don’t think vanagon or VW bus people answer the phone, or can directly assist. 

Hang in they're Ken.


Eric Caron