At 04:52 PM 7/2/97 -0400, Mark S. Lepore, MD wrote:
>What have I done?
>My '71 Tr6 that I bought less than a month ago needs major work, or so a
>recent mechanic says. I'd like people's opinions on these prices, and
>alternatives, aside from me doing it myself, which I'm not confident I
>could do. Symptoms: lots of play in the steering; the car sags to the
>passenger side; carb leaks fuel, and idle is too high. My gut feeling
>is that their labor rate is too high, and perhaps some of the things
>really don't need to be done:
>
>1)Install a new rack, new tie rod ends, a new shaft and u joint and
>align the front end. Parts $535, labor $205
Depending on your mechanical ability you might be able to install these
parts yourself (then take it somewhere to get aligned).
>2) Install front springs - Parts $76, Labor $220
You should be able to do this yourself & save $220
>3) Install rear springs - Parts $90, Labor $138
Likewise with the rear springs...
>4) Install front end "major suspension kit", which replaces all the worn
>bushings and things like that. - Parts $638, Labor $550
Parts cost is WAYYY out of line - check the TRF/Moss/Vickie Brit catalogues
>5) Carb rebuild (both carbs) Parts - $86, Labor $330
If he's just gonna use a "rebuild" kit w/no rebushing, then you can do this
yourself & save the labor cost
>6) Install new vacuum advance $65 for used part, $55 labor
I'd like to know where he's able to find a "used vaccumn advance minus the
attached distributor and how's he gonna guarantee the part.
>
>Any and all input would be appreciated.
>Sirmoog
My final advise - 1)get a second opinion, I think your "mechanic" has kids
he's trying to put through school. 2) Unless you have a lot of money and a
good, honest mechanic with sufficient exposure and knowledge of Triumphs
(good luck on that one) get as many workshop manuals as you can acquire and
learn to do some of the work yourself. For the most part, you will find
that you can do most of the maintenance on your car and its actually a lot
of fun.
Hugh Barber
'73 TR-6
>
>
|