Timing Chain Replacement... PULL THE HEAD?

I ordered a timing chain kit for a local shop to install. I trust them as they have worked on family vehicles before. I dropped it off today to have them install everything only to have them tell me the original estimate of 6 hours would turn in 15+ head gasket, oil pan gasket etc etc. bringing to total to about $1400. They didnt know you would have to pull the head and after some research realized there is apparently no other way to do it. What's the deal... true? Its a 96 3rz and he says he hasnt ever seen a motor where you have to actually pull the head to replace the chain. now ive got $200 in parts that will be subject to a restocking fee from rockauto and a finnicky motor with some chain slap. oh, and im a broke high schooler.

 

Yes, it's true. The FSM clearly specifies removing the cylinder head as one of the steps in removing / replacing the timing chain.

 

Yeah just pull the head, and do it correctly as any "Rigging" will cost you in the long run. Seems like that shop has there act together and doesn't belive in shortcuts.

 

Just had mine done on my 99 at the dealership and they only charged $400 for the labor. Why are they askin so much?

 

Ah I missed that my bad.

 

What exactly do you mean by that?

 

It's his way of trying to be sly with a racist slur.