1994 DX 4x4 troubles (clutch, wheel bearing?)

[cliffc]

I have a 1994 dx pickup that I bought over the winter. When I made the purchase, I knew the truck had some work that needed to be done. It has all been taken care of except for the clutch. I bought a clutch kit online and my brother-in-law was going to put it on. Unfortunately I am in Boston and he is in PA so I need to take this thing to a mechanic to get fixed. Any idea how much I should expect to pay and what I should look for? I have been quoted at $480 from one garage and that seems awfully high considering I have the part...

Next, I was told that the truck had some loose front wheel bearings when I bought it. Is this why the truck shakes when I brake at high speeds. If so... how much should I expect to pay to have this fixed (I realize that it could be a variety of things so I am only looking ballpark figures here)??

Lastly, any thoughts on where to take the truck for these problems? Would a national chain or a small garage be a better idea? I assume the national chain guys work on commission and would be more likely to try to sell me a bunch of extra junk, and at the same time be less likely to do the work using my part... but I am just not sure..

Thanks for helping a poor college kid out....


I guess I should have included that the truck is a 4 cyl (22re), manual transmission

thanks again

[80toy]

just drive aroung to a few different shops, chain and private, and get price quotes.

[desertguy61]

Its easy to check your bearings. Jack up the front of the truck and wiggle your wheel...3 oclock and 9 oclock positions, and top and bottom. If you feel play you might not need bearings. I had some play in one wheel. the bearings were quiet and not scorched so I just repacked the bearings and adjusted them. one other thing you can do is take it to Midas and have them do a free inspection. Have them show you everything they find. But don't pay their prices...lol.

A front end shimmy can come from alot of things What I see alot on shimmies when the brakes are applied is a rotor that is a bit out of true. You may need to have the rotors cut.