It only took me 4 hours at home! A shop should be able to do it in way under that. But I say skip the shop and do it yourself. I am by no means a super mechanic...I change my oil and can do the basics and thats about it. On the scale of 1-10 on the difficulty scale, I'd say this is a 3-4 at the most. As for the tools needed they are going to be way cheaper to buy than what the shop will charge for the install. I bought my springs at Rocky Road Off Road for about $125. Nothing else is needed. If you stick with 31 inch tires you do need bump stop extensions. If you go bigger you will need to do a few other mods...major fender trimming and some metal rearanging in the fender wells. The stock shocks will work just fine...mine still do. After doing the project you can have another drink and give yourself a big pat on the back to go with it! :_drool:
Just print up my how-to and follow the instructions, its all pretty well laid out. It is not difficult at all then you'll be a proud owner of a whole new VX! Once you get back on your feet from the hurricane loss hopefully you'll be able to join us in Moab to test out that lift!