Tie rods + Control Arms - DIY????

[mad1]

Hi All

This week, my mech recommended some work on the car:


Rear control arms (The ones that go kinda front-to-back, I'm not sure if they're thrust or camber control arms). The mech said that the bushing is worn and the arms need to be replaced because they are pushing into the housing.


Front Tie Rods - The mech demonstrated by lifting the car and turning the front wheel with his hands and showed that there was play in the tie rod ends (Both left and right)


Anyway, I was quoted 50-60 Cdn for each control arm and tie rod, and 2-2.5 hours labour + an alignment.


First off, is the above reasonable? Do suspension and steering items wear out in this way? What about costs - are they reasonable?

More importantly, can I do this (safely) on my own? I'm a very novice DIYer, but I am willing to spend a whole weekend on this job, if I can do it. If yes, any guidance would be needed and greatly appreciated.

Thanks a bunch peeps, I hope I can DIY this, because I really don't have the $$$ to spare for mech's labour, etc. I'm guessing I have to cough up for the alignment, but that's unavoidable, I guess.......





If anyone wants me to get under the car and take pics, let me know......









EDIT: It's a 1988 190E 2.6