I've been quoted the cost of labor to install the JCW suspension is at 1140.00+tax.

Does this sound high?

How much have others paid?

 

Yes it sounds high, because I installed a suspension on my car including FSB and RSB and USS (components not included with the JCW suspension) with a friend and all together it took maybe 6 hours.

The installs were not done all at once so it would take even less time if they were.

The springs, shocks, and struts alone took us 2.5 hours in my 3-car garage.

It is a super-simple job, and I don't think you should pay a dime over $600. Of course, I think $600 is a rip-off for a job that only takes a couple hours.

But I digress.

 

How hard would the install be for a complete novice? Looks kinda daunting to me. I have limited tools as well.

 

Its not as hard as you think. Also, you could probably purchase the tools needed and still come out way ahead of what the dealer wants. Search for DIY Suspension and Im sure you will find someone that has done it.

 

I had mine installed for under $300.

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...spring+install

The thread in the link is what I used for info. It tells you exactly what tools you'll need, and every step to take along the way. If you have a friend with any mechanical experience, you don't need spring compressors as outlined in the thread, that's what I did.
Also, I did not use the fancy strut bolt socket, I bought the rubber/plastic strap wrenches from Sears for $15 and did it that way. You will need a torque wrench, but everyone should have one. Less than $100 from Sears.

For a novice this job might take all day. The question is, how much is your day worth to you?

 

Wow! Thanks for the link. Definitely more than I'm capable of. I just got a quote from one of the vendors on the board for $300. That seems much more reasonable than the jacked up dealer rates.

THX!