Why 'Angie's List' Is A Good Idea

As mentioned in a previous post, I have found myself stranded in Raleigh, NC due to a blown motor.  I had found a mobile "mechanic" on Craigslist who had stated he could replace the 350 motor in my RV for a "reasonable" rate.

I agreed to have him do the work at a flat rate that would include installing a new 350 crate motor, servicing the transmission (new filter and fluids), and diagnose an electric issue I had with the rv.

Nov. 14

• New motor is ordered
• Front end of van is removed
• Disconnection of components

Nov.  19

• Motor is delivered
• Old motor is removed

Nov. 21

• Work begins late in the evening
• Water pump, valve covers, etc. attached
• Old exhaust manifold needs adjusting
• Oil filter adapter broken
• Parts ordered

Nov. 27

• "Mechanic" MIA for Thanksgiving holiday
• No progress made for days on end
• Motor is finally put into engine bay
• Some components are re-attached
• Oil lines have leak and need replacing

Nov. 30

• Oil lines fixed
• Battery is dead (left on ground)
• Radiator has leak (possibly damaged during removal)
• Order new radiator

Dec. 1

• New radiator installed
• Timing adjusted
• Engine starts!
• Engine won't idle, something's wrong
• "Mechanic" continues to adjust timing
• Looks over all vacuum lines
• They "seem" right

Delay after delay....

Dec. 15

• "Expert" backup mechanic called in w/30 years experience
• Engine starts.  No idle.
• Definitely a vacuum leak
• I found the leak.
• Carburetor installed incorrectly!
• Mounting gasket in backwards!

Everything sounds and runs much better with the carburetor mounted properly.  Now it's just a simple matter of putting the front end back on the van and taking care of a few miscellaneous ends.

I am confident that the "mechanic" is sufficiently embarassed by his very stupid mistake that he will make finishing the job a top priority.  Of course, we know what they say about those that 'assume'.

Dec. 18

I had been told that the van will be complete today.  I leave to attend a holiday party with some new found gracious friends.  I return at around 4 pm to find the "mechanic" installing a monstrous stereo system in his car, complete with 3000W amplifier and huge subwoofer.

I attempt to address my frustration with him about his clear unprofessionalism and his failure to keep his promise.  He immediately becomes very abusive and tells me (one again), "it'll be done tomorrow."  I respond, "I've heard that 3 times before.  I want to make sure that you get it done this time."  It escalated immediately from there with him threatening to not complete the job if I don't leave him alone to finish his stereo.

***Background***
It had become very apparent to me shortly after contracting this individual that he had a myriad of personal problems and bad habits.  He clearly drank too much, often starting with beer first thing in the morning.  I was awoke on many evenings/early mornings to him being abusive and yelling at his pregnant fiancée.  We had a few exchanges in which he was a bully and would not allow others to talk.  Needless to say, I approached him very gingerly whenever I spoke to him.
***

I write this post today and still have not seen the completion of the job.  My advice to anyone needing professional services or a mechanic is to sign up for, and review, a recommendations site like Angie's List.