$6k quote for head gaskets on 4.0 SOHC?

[JJMaine]

Thanks guys. I know Ford themselves didn't quote me $6k it's just the way I said it. I knew from the beginning that their labor rates were going to be higher than anywhere else but I figured that was my best chance of being able to drop my truck off and have it fixed with no hassle and hopefully a good job. I was willing to pay a bit extra for that.

I didn't get any paper referring to the estimate. I wish I had known when I picked the truck up I would have demanded one lol. I only got the paper for the air bag recall they did and the diagnosis which ended up being only 200.85 (only). But he told me it was almost $600 yesterday on the phone.

Like super j said, I feel like they gave me the "f you" price where it's a win win for them.

Uncle Gump, that may be the way I go just get a new engine. I wish I know of a good reman shop but they all seem to get mixed reviews. From what I call tell Auto Zone engines are the same 50/50 chance but it sounds like they always go good for a new engine and labor if needed.

 

[JJMaine]

The estimate should be itemized.

What did it say you got for 6k?

He was not clear about anything really. He said it would be about $6k IF the heads and block were good so basically just taking it apart and bolting on new head gaskets and all the other parts and gaskets that go with it etc. He said 12 hours labor at $175 which is $2100 for labor

When I asked what happens if the cylinders are warped he said "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it maybe we can find a machine shop or something because Ford doesn't offer new cylinder heads anymore". So they want to take my truck apart for a guaranteed $6k and then pray everything else is good or theyll be able to just charge me whatever they want and I'll have to pay if I want my truck back. I really wish I would have had them write me an estimate, maybe I can get them to make one up and email it to me?

And I WAS going to ask them to replace the water pump, radiator and timing chain tensioners while they were at it which probably would have been another $1k

 

[JJMaine]

First problem is you took it to a Ford dealer... Their rates are 75% higher than the shop I bring my stuff to...

I generally always trust an independent shop to do better work than a stealership as well.

I'm with you on that one. Stealership.