1981 euro 280sl repair cost ?

[lbuggie]

The 280sl was going in for valve adjustment, and new valve cover gasket. I discovered coolant, not too much however it was enough to know I had more than the valve adjustment to be done. It turns out that it was the water pump leaking, and fan clutch.

The parts costs were in line, however it took 6.5 hours. I was just wondering if the labor time was in line ?

Any professional input would be appreciated.

[MrCjames]

A 1981 M110 with A/C would be roughly what you were quoted, or at least billed for a water pump replacement. It does not seem out of line by an extreme that would warrant an argument either way. When you hire a person to perform a repair you pay for his knowledge of the job at hand. As well, you pay for the use of the tools that were purchased to perform a particular task.

I am confused why the general public has difficulty recognizing that working on cars requires a substantial investment in tooling. Tooling includes: wrenches, screw drivers, sockets, ratchets, extensions, special tools, experience, exposure, books, information services/systems, and the willingness to continue learning about an ever changing vehicle that is becoming software driven.

If the goal is to save money on auto repairs than a great option might include making your personal commitment into the tooling. Invest 30K in hard tools than invest the next five years learning how to use all of the tools (information as well) to perform the numerous tasks!

A good mechanic is increasingly difficult to find, invest in them and your car is well taken care of.

[lbuggie]

This was an actual time 6.5 hours and repair cost 700.00. The car does have AC, this is the first the sl has been in the shop other than for oil changes and state inspections. It only has 72,000 orig miles and runs like a champ and is MINT. The mechanic works on my VW, and has never soaked me. He does have the proper tools, and he has the engine manual online so he did not even look at my copy. I was just checking to see if the labor time was extreme.

Thanks for the quick responce MrCjames

[MrCjames]

Not a problem.

German technicians are great friends to have.