Now that the snow has gone (in the UK at least) the XJ has been up on the ramp and it looks like the UJs need changing, how many hours labour do you reckon is fair for an independant garage to charge me?

Yes, I know I should be underneath it doing the whole thing myself... but I don't have any space. or tools. or talent. or a clue.

 

i was quoted 2.5 hrs from a local shop. had a fried do it, and it took him 1 hr per u joint

 

that sounds fair.

 

they are not to hard to change...if you have a c-clamp, some sockets, and a little patience, then you can do it yourself and save $150

 

my wheel hub nut was completely seized.

i ended up just paying 150 for all 4 shocks and struts, and two front ujoints.

 

You do know there is a write-up here in the tech section on how to do it... with a parts list, a tools list and even pictures.....

 

i know what you mean, sometimes it is just easier and less of a headache to get it done. like now i need to change my axle balljoints and i have been putting it off cause it is a pain in the ***, but i dont really want to shell out the cash to do it.

 

do you mean your driveshaft ujoints?

try it yourself, you don't need too many fancy tools. i completely rebuilt one the other day and it was the first time i had changed ujoints on my own, i had seen it done many times. get a hammer, an extra socket, some needle nose pliers and vice grips, and go to town.

i changed mine on my dining room floor haha. and by doing it yourself, if one breaks on the road or the trail you know how to fix it yourself.

 

x2