I'm looking for a recommended independent (non-stealer) LLY mechanic for routine service/maintenance in the Northern Virginia/Wash., DC/Maryland area. Any "well-earned" recommendations out there anywhere, please ??? Thanks !

I'll hop in on this thread and also ask for a recommended diesel performance shop in the same area. I have stripped a bolt due to EGR blocker plate installation and afer 10 hours of trying to get it off, I have decided that I need professional help.

I will not go to a regular mechanic - I want a performance tuner shop specifically because these guys tend to take more pride in their work.

T, Here's what I did with a dealership shop, but should also work on a non-stealer shop. Dealership where I bought the D/A has "Service Consultants" who basically are there as a link between the mechanic and customer. "Service Consultant" can write up the ticket, but you need to get one on one with the mechanic to make your own assessment. I found that shops are only to happy to let me visit with the mechanic since I've spent big time $$$$. The guy that works on my truck has a live body associated with the truck and knows that I'm gonna visit with him to get detailed readout from him. Sooo, my .02 is to visit a shop and get some face time with the mechanic that will work on your truck. If a shop does do this for you then find one that will and get a comfort level about the mechanic.

cgibson - Thanks, good advice & I always try to do exactly that with anybody that works on any of my vehicles - 2 or 4 wheeled - BUT - what I'm really lookin' for is a recommendation from someone in my area who knows of and/or personally used a good, reliable honest & knowledgeable LLY mechanic - surely, there's gotta be one up here somewhere . . .