1st gen Timing belt Replacement cost.

i got a quote from a dealership about a month ago of $728 for a water pump and timing belt replacement

 

whoah... Dealer had a special for timing belt and water pump for 199.99 and it increases to about 700 dollars if you need all the belts done. It doesn't make sense to me, but I figure it's a price to get you in the door.

I bought my kit from ebay for about 300 odd dollars and paid 250 for labor(me thinks).

 

I vote DIY, it's not just the satisfaction of doing it yourself and for a 1/3-1/2 the cost of most shops, but the knowledge of knowing how your truck works is invaluable. If I can figure how to do something correctly myself and I have the capability, I feel like I would.

$250 shipped for a very comprehensive kit that includes timing belt, thermostat, new drive belts for AC, power steering and alternator, new water pump, proper steel gasket, new bearings and tensioners, and gaskets for front crankshaft and camshafts. All parts are Japanese made, of high quality, OEM Toyota, Bando of USA, Koyo, Aisin, and GMB.

http://www.timingbeltkit.com/collec...yota-tacoma-1995-to-2004-v6-3-4l-w-oil-cooler

 

I got quoted about that much for labor only and a toyota specialist shop. They wouldn't entertain a dollar less, very recommended here in the site. But talk about inflation of price, because your booked solid for months on out....oh well. my 2 cents.