This 2002 Montero Sport is leaking power steering fluid so bad that I can only drive it short distances without adding fluid. I took the vehicle to a local repair shop; the took a look and said the steering gear box is the source of the leak and said it needs to be replaced. They stated an approximate repair cost of $1100-$1200; there was no discussion of breakdown by part and labor.

That seemed awfully high to me. So, I checked on websites of Advance Auto Parts, and AutoZone, and found steering gear box for a little less than $500. And then, I looked for used ones on eBay and found one listed by a seller, with very good credentials (758 reviews, 98% positive) for about $150 including shipping. I bought it. Now, I plan to contact that repair shop again, inform them of this used steering gear box purchased by me, and ask about labor time.

So, my question here is, what is a reasonable labor time for this? I imagine it would be at least 2 hours. If that is not realistic, can someone here state what you think is a reasonable/acceptable labor time?

 

Good question. Im not sure how much "stuff" needs to be removed to take the steering box out in your rig. I know that in my 94 Montero, it was a good deal of effort just accessing the power steering lines that feed into the top of the steering box. The steering shaft does come off and slide upward and out of the way somewhat. Im guessing a good 4 hours to replace it, but you may find a site online that estimates this job for all vehicle models. If your power steering lines show any signs of bubbling rust, they should be replaced at the same time, but its not mandatory. A good time to totally flush out the old fluid.