Hello everyone,

I got a quote to have Evo gussets and skids welded on. The quote was 3 hours labor @ $90 an hour plus 6% for shop supplies. So that's almost $300. It's a reputable shop and the welder has done many installs. Does this sound like a reasonable price? I have read that some people have had gussets done for $50.

Thanks for any input.

Gary

 

If you don't know of a decent welder by being a friend or a friend of a friend then your kind of stuck at their quote, you may want to check a few other shops, that seems high for the small amount of welding. He'll spend more time letting it cool off than he will running a bead. I had my gussets and skids welded for a case of beer.

 

Honestly, while it may be a bit high, it's probably not. If it's a reputable shop, then they should know what they are doing. Remember, if they don't ground properly, it's possible to fry the electronics. Also, when welding on the axle, if they get it too hot, they can make the axle weaker than before the mods. Also, how many skids? If you're panning the belly, I'd say that's more than likely a really good price. Just my 2 cents.

 

I'm guessing control arm skids.

 

Huh???? Not sure how they would fry electronics by welding on gussets? The price is a bit high for gussets being there is not a lot of work involved. You really only need upper gussets being that is the weakest part. The biggest thing is not over heating them and ruining your ball joints.

Op: what skids are you planning that would require welding????

 

If your not grounded properly the ground will search for the path of least resistance which is almost always anything copper. And grounded properly means grinding off paint and being as close to work as possible.

 

And I'm a welder/machinist and my shop rate is $100 hr so that is a fair price for a customer but my buddy rate is always cheaper cause yea never know when you'll have to call in a favor!!

 

I'm in Canada everything seems to cost more here lol
I'm getting my upper and lower EVO C's done
May 23rd quote $320.
He's taking his time and said 4-5 hrs

 

I would not recommend anyone welding on anything with electronics without removing the ground wire off the battery.

 

Thanks for all the replies.

It's control arm skids and the Gussets.

It sounds like I'm getting a standard retail price and I'm just used to getting good deals. Any good welders in Maryland need a new buddy? I sure could use the buddy rate!

I'm also wondering if the Evo's are the best choice. It looks like it would be hard to paint the part of the axle under the gusset and it might rust.

Can you guys let me know what brands you are using and any input on how they are holding up?

Thanks again,
Gary