new kid on the block, griping already!

[85vette]

Hi folks, I have a 1985 Vette and am slowly getting her in daily driver form. I knew it needed a water pump so, smart me, I get upper and lower hoses and a Cloyes timing gear and set, aftermarket water pump,you know, kill two birds with one stone. After looking it over I have determined I don't have all the tools needed to do the job and have solicited labor estimates from a couple of local shops. They're telling me how you have to put it on a lift and remove the steering rack, etc., etc. $587.00 just for labor?!? I'm thinkin, this sounds a bit high, so I call the local Chevy place (University Chev. in Tallahassee) and ask what the labor would be for this job? $330.00 Wow! Never thought a dealer would be lower than an independant, right? BUT......... There's a catch! The dealer won't install non-GM parts. So,rather than pay $250.00 more for labor, I have to pay $250.00 more for the GM parts! We just can't win!