Cost of a head gasket?

[AdamB]

Had the head gasket go on the cab a couple of weeks back, so I thought I would get it all pressure tested and skimmed, unfortunatly I had to get it done at a garage this time, and was expecting to pay about ?250 for the lot (oil, anti-freeze, parts, labour, skimming, pressure test, etc) Just picked it up today from the garage, and left ?420 lighter!!!! Really wasn't expecting it to be that much, Does anyone else reckon this is a bit OTT? - it's a private garage, and not a main dealer either

[Blue MK2]

VW would have probably charged u less u recon???

[vixteris]

that sounds well over the top for a petrol mota -  my diesel cost 500 and i cud understand that bein more expensive but i would expect half of that for the cab!!

would expect to pay 150 for a service tho so maybe 400 max  

[AdamB]

I really don't know, I never use main dealers for work, just parts. I have to admit it is nice to have her back on the road though. I have really missed her the last two weeks.
Thought I would re-wire all the wiring to the battery and attach some quick release levers whilst I was in the mood, so seeing as I had the battery out I thought I would drill the air box. So, not wishing to start this argument again, BUT -  it does make a difference, and sounds fantastic.

* Adam sits back and waits for the debate to ensue*

[Dizzie]

drilling the air box for the first time puts a huge smile on your face the first time you boot it

i didn't notice any difference in the performance or economy. it just sounded a lot more meaty.

[golfvr6]

That sounds fine Adam.
Remember to get the head skimmed, it has to be stripped down first, a lot of labour involved in the whole job.
People need to make a living, even garages. As long as the job has been done properly with good materials then i see no reason to complain.

[AdamB]

Cheers '6. I know the guy who runs the garage, and trust his work. I had the job done properly - skimmed, pressure tested, etc.  I just wanted to check that it wasn't a mistake with the final bill. I'm happy it is done, and back on the road, so thats all the matters now.

[golfvr6]

No worries.
Did the head need skimming?
Was the car overheating?
I hope he used genuine parts for that price, if it did then i think it will last.

[AdamB]

The car wasn't overheating, but the excess pressure was causing the coolant to be forced out of a weakening flange seal. Hopefully the cooloant pressure wont build up to anything like it was before now.
He never said if the head needed to be skimmed or not, but I thought for the extra money it was better to have it done, and get it pressure tested, than re-fit it and find the head was cracked, and have to pay all over again.

[G6dub]

we had a head gasket but blow proper good, we had to have the head welded etc.... with all the parts we replaced and re new we spent over ?1000 on it.
So I still think you got away lightly there