S70 Steering Rack, price opinions

[valis]

Hi hi,


I've had a leaky steering rack for about a year, ever since I bought my car. I decided to take it to a friend (more of a friends friend than someone I actually hang out with often) that co-runs a repair shop.

I need to get a new rack, new outter tie rods, and alignment. He has quoted me $860 on this job (with 9.5% sales tax). I've done a fair amount of repairs myself, including replacing an exhaust manifold and replacing the ETM, so I know how to hunt down good deals out there.

Looking over the price on the internet, I've found the rack for $300 @ sweedishwholesale.com, I see the tie rods on FCP Groton and eBay for around $50-$60 a pair, and he will be taking the car to Best One for alignment, and I know they charge around $70 + tax for alignment.


They charge $66 an hour at his shop; the cost of the parts being $440. Is this job itself worth around $350 (6 hours of work) ??


What do you guys think?

[utvol1984]

Check FCP Groton again. They list one S70 steering rack on their website for $225 and $150 core. I would be surprised if you find anyone who can beat their prices and the service is great. If you are at all mechaniclly inclined you can probably tackle the job yourself with a good set of mechanics tools and a Haynes book. It's a little messy but doable. Good luck.