I got to thinking about all the work I've done to my truck in the last 6 months and started to wonder how much I would have paid in labor if a shop had done everything.

 

Project #1

Installed DOR track bar.

 

Project #2

Removed timing case cover and replaced seal.

Tabbed the KDP.

Cleaned, applied Loctite, and torqued timing case to engine bolts.

Removed injection pump, replaced tappet cover gasket.

Set pump timing to 16.5°.

Flushed cooling system

 

Project #3

Replaced belt tensioner

 

Project #4

Replaced wheel cylinders with GM 1-ton pieces.

Replaced wheel seal.

Replaced rear brake drums and shoes.

Flushed brake system.

 

Project #5

Replaced A/C evaporator and heater core.

Replaced HVAC unit foam.

 

Project #6

Replace transmission lines.

 

Project #7

Removed transmission.

Removed valvebody.

Inspected transmission, replaced anchor and apply lever with billet pieces.

Installed new valve valvebody.

Installed transmission.

Road test vehicle, adjusted T/V cable and front band.

 

Project #8

Replaced steering gear output shaft seal.

Cleaned power steering pump screen.

Flushed system.

 

Project #9

Replaced front shocks.

 

 

So, without spending too much time running the numbers how much do you think it would have cost in labor alone for all of the work listed above?

 

 

Edited December 27, 20159 yr by The_Hammer

Up in New England, where Mechanics get $80-$110/hr, I'm guessing $1500-$2000. I think they charged $400 just to drop my transmission

Dealership vs local shop would charge more

I know for sure it's cheaper to buy tools and do the job, and in the end you keep tools, in most cases. I'm proud to say that I only took my vehicle once to service for an oil change and got a print out for 500 some bucks, after that I started to buy tools and do it all myself.

I was figuring it was at least a couple grand or so, if not more.

I was a diesel/heavy equipment mechanic so I have most of the tools I could need for just about any repair. I can't imagine taking anything to a shop, not even an automatic transmission.