I usually do all of the easy maintenance on my truck (oil changes, filter changes, brake pads, etc) but I'm not mechanically inclined enough to flush the transmission or anything with the transfer case and diffs. So... I called my local Ford dealer/service center and scheduled a service visit. Since it's a 4x4 they listed the things that need to be done (tranny, transfer case, diffs, etc.) since they haven't been done previously. They estimated/quoted about $400 before taxes. Does this sound fair/reasonable? Can or should I look for an outside service provider? Considering that I don't have a previously determined favorite mechanic or anything, this could be a crap shoot. (I live in the Indianapolis area in case someone has any suggestions.)

My truck is:
2003 Ranger XLT 4x4 (open diffs)
4.0L SOHC
Auto Tranny
4:10 gears

 

That sounds about like the price I was quoted at the dealership. I talked to one of the techs, and he did it "on the side" for $225. I just dealt directly with him.

 

$400, is actually a fair price at a dealer since they charge about $75 pr/hr plus all the parts. I do everything my self and at 50k i changed every fluid in my truck, every filter and plugs/wires and cleaned the throttle body and it only cost about $150 for all the parts and took an afternoon to do.