I would like to share one of my many good experiences with Jake.
I considered having Jake build a 2270 Type 4 for me. After much thought, I decided to bite the bullet and build it myself. I was not questioning Jake's ability to build me a good motor, I just felt I wanted to do it for my own satisfaction. In retrospect, it would have been cheaper and easier to have him build me a motor, but we all have to learn sometime.
After gathering parts and receiving large amounts of information from Jake and others on the STF, I slowly began building my motor. It went thru many iterations and design changes. During this time, I communicated with Jake via email and over the phone for advice. I had yet to spend one penny with his company.
I was able to have the pleasure of having Jake do some machine work for me; I received it within a quick time period and the craftsmanship was to the highest caliber.
Once my motor was together I started it and began to break the cam in. Due to a cam and lifter incompatibility, the lifters failed almost immediately from the initial startup. I asked Jake his opinion and he walked me through things to check to try and figure out this situation. A car show was coming up in a few weeks and I was planning on taking my car there to show off the new motor. Jake graciously shipped a new cam and lifters (Next Day air, BTW) without even asking for any money for it. He wanted me to make that car show with a strong T4 running in the back of my Bug. He simply asked that I replace the set that he sent.
Unfortunately, the damage was much more severe than we had both anticipated and the motor needed more attention than just cam and lifters. Again, Jake helped me through this setback in my motor buildup and helped me get it back to a stronger state than it was before.
I have met many VW enthusiasts (many in person and more over the internet) and none are more gracious than I have experienced with Jake Raby. He is a honest, dedicated, and intelligent individual who's passion is VW's and all associated with them.
I will continue to support Jake's cause and do business with him.
Tom Perso
See more customer testimonials