mx5cartalk.com

Hi

Just quoted $1000 to change cam belt, water pump, seals etc. seems steep to me.
(MX5 Plus).
Any suggestions for a good mechanic to do it cheaper in Brisbane Northside?
Maybe a good mobile guy as I could strip things down before he arrives?

Cheers

MX5 Plus do quality work and (at least to me) are worth it.

What do you think it is worth?

Go to a specialist, you'll pay that. Go to a local mechanic, you pay 75% of that. If you don't know of no one else that can do the work, then paying the extra is worth it.

Personally I think it is a little high. But then again you are paying for their experience/knowledge. not that it is a big deal on a water pump and timing belt change. Hopefully includes froont crank seal?

Depending on the quality of parts and what is being specifically replaced parts would be $600, and labour the balance.

You should ask for a specific breakdown of that quote and compare part prices with a few online UK or USA shops to get a feel for how reasonable they are being. Labour should be around 4 hours and $100 per hour for experienced and busy mechanics is about right.

If you did it yourself (I did) it only cost me about $400 not inc labour.

G

I just finished mine today. $250 for all the parts delivered from mx5parts uk (pump, seals etc) and free labour (myself - although time is money ).

Of course if the job gets done incorrectly, your crankshaft nose could get ruined in time and then you'd need a new crankshaft - $$$$. If I couldn't do it myself, I'd go to MX-5 Plus.

it's not that far off the mark. Get some alternative quotes. I would not think about doing half the job yourself. A reputable mechanic / business will warrant their work. You can also ask MX Plus to give you some more info eg what make of water pump and timing belt they use.

Having a replacement engine installed sourced from an astina from a wreckers shouldn't cost more than 1000.

Dann

Basho kindly posted his detailed receipt after he had his done - the thread also provides some other insights: viewtopic.php?f=18&t=51227

Cheers all. The MX5 parts UK looks the goods for quality parts without the excessive prices.