I'm putting together a family trip SMF-IAD. On the united.com website in expert mode, I can find availability in V class for SMF-SFO and SFO-IAD legs. When I try to book the flight, UAL assigns an expensive U class. I called UAL by phone and the CSR couldn't see any V availability. ITA shows V fares available for the flights. Expedia and Travelocity don't show the V fares but Orbitz does; unfortunately when finishing the booking, Orbitz does the "bait-and-switch" and prices out a much higher fare.

Any suggestions? I thought I'd try my TA and see if she can book this thing; also thought about calling UAL continuously until some CSR can find the fares. I'd prefer to book this one on-line, or at least use UAL because coupon redemptions would be easier, too.