How much does it cost to have a head gasket changed?

[Maluco]

I think I might have burned my head gasket and was wondering about how much should I expect to get charged (for labor only) by a tech working on the side?

I pulled over immediately after the hose busting, I don't see how I could have burned the gasket that quick. System is pushing water up out of the resevoir and car is overheating... Could this be anything else?

[equate975]

I think my buddy paid $2500 at the dealer.

Its going to be expensive, I can tell you that.

[AdironRider]

Yeah, definately NOT going to be cheap. But with your buddy doing it on the side, he might cut you a break. I say bring lots of beer as a peace offering.

[MikeK]

i did mine myself with a little help from my buddies... its fairly straight foward, i say save that $2500 and do it yourself

[blunttech]

labor only?? i wouldnt give him more than 500.00
im not sure what book is but even if it took this dude 2 days thats about 300 a day tax free