I don't think he's outta line with the cost. That's a lotta money, but that what this stuff costs. $70-90 hr is the going rate. I'm sure you could find a place that'll do it cheaper, but the most important thing is that it's all done right.

I had this stuff done in '06 at 118,000 miles-
-Replace timing belt, tensioner, and water pump- labor=$324.00 parts=$295.34
-Replace radiator and heater hoses, and flush 'n fill coolant- labor=$101.35 parts=$144.85
-Replace serpentine drive belt(3rd time)- labor=$0 parts=$20.83
-Oil change and lube(34th time)- labor=$10.95 parts=$19.30
-Flush 'n bleed brake fluid- labor=$86.40 parts=$8.72
-Change front and rear diffy fluids(3rd time)- labor=$86.40 parts=$54.21
-Change transfer case fluid(3rd time)- labor=$36.00 parts=$5.00
-Flush 'n fill tranny fluid(3rd time)- labor=$64.95 parts=$67.97
-Replace/repack front wheel bearings(3rd time)- labor=$179.95 parts=$98.52
-Front end alignment(5th time)- labor=$49.95 parts=$0

Totals-
Labor=$989.95
Parts=$714.74
Misc.=$4.35
Tax=$136.73
Total=$1845.77

As you can see more than half was labor. It was done at my most very trusted dealer shop by an A#1 Isuzu trained mechanic. I was very happy with everything he did and has done for years with my VX.

I've put a helluva lotta money into preventive maintenance and I'm at 235,000 miles with no complaints. You've gotta spend money and not neglect anything to keep a VX in top shape for 10-20 years.

Try doing the easy stuff yourself and leave the tuff stuff only to him and save a bunch. I wonder if he knows the manifold has to come off to change the thermostat? For that reason I've never had my thermostat changed. I'm still on my original at 235K. When it fails, it'll get changed.

Mark Griffin (a VX lifer)