'97 FJ80 - needs valve cover gasket replaced

[lloftis]

I am looking at buying a '97 FJ80, had a toyota dealer do inspection, turns out it needs a valve cover gasket replaced, quote from dealer was around $400-$500
couple of quick questions:
1. is this price fair?
2. this truck is about 4 hours away from Dallas, can i drive it home without doing any damage?
3. is this something i should be concerned about, or is this normal maintenance?
Thanks in advance for any and all help...

 

[gtfour43]

Dealer is taking your money. You can do it at home with simple hand tools. You can contact any vendor here to order the parts. CDan,Beno or Sam at Lowe Toyota can get everything you need. Just check your oil level and you should be good to go unless its leaking like crazy.

 

[lloftis]

thank you very much for the info, hopefully can buy it tomorrow after test drive, said it was 'barely' leaking, will touch base with the vendors here if i make a purchase, have a great one

 

[rolliges]

If it's not your then either: A) dealer fixes it at current price OR B) you buy it for $500 (dealers price to fix) less than current price.

 

[wspastorbryan]

I was just quoted $327 at a non-dealer to do it, but I'm going to do it myself. Seems way high to me.

 

[scrowley]

Do it yourself for sure. Take your time and follow FSM. Save your $. Get the spark plug tube gaskets too.

 

[rolliges]

Get a few extra bolts too in case some break or get lost. Watch the torque specs. Amazingly low. 10 or 12 ft lbs. not sure. Please check.

 

[OGBeno]

$100 and a sixer of some beer and id have ya out the door in 3 hrs...including a 15 min #6 break.

 

[gtfour43]

$100 and a sixer of some beer and id have ya out the door in 3 hrs...including a 15 min #6 break.

ROADTRIP