Quick Question Mitchell Estimate
 

If someone has a 2008 Mitchell or All Data guide, can you tell me the estimated time for replacing a timing belt on a 93 Ford Escort (I know this isn't a truck but you guys generally respond quickly, which is what I need)? I've heard it is around 2 hours? Just trying to see if the mechanic is trying to rip off a friend. I know the belt is about $20-30, but it takes some time to get to it.

thanks.

RE: Quick Question Mitchell Estimate
 

chilton pays 3.0 for a 1.8l.....2.5 for a 1.9l

RE: Quick Question Mitchell Estimate
 

I called the local Ford dealer, figuring they would be on the high side. Ironically, they could only look up estimated times back to 2001. However, she said that for a 2001 Escort, it would be 4.1 hrs for whatever that's worth (and $90/hr!!). Obviously there's a difference between 93 and 01.

The car in question is a 1.9L. The guy is wanting $250. I called the shop anonymously from another phone, and they told me their labor rate is $72. Assuming about $25 for the belt, puts it right around 3 hrs. Although this seems a tad high and a better price might be found elsewhere, it doesn't appear to be rediculously overpriced and a snow job. My friend didn't get a warm fuzzy feeling from the mechanic, but that's where the car was towed.

We'll see what he comes back with when he takes it apart and "finds other issues". I know there are many trustworthy and reputable mechanics out there, but I really have a hard time trusting them. This is probably due to my lack of knowledge and inadequacies in the auto mechanics realm.

But hey, if I ever had to deal with the local Federal Appropriations Law repairman, nobody's going to pull the wool over my eyes. Too bad there's no such thing.