*rant on*

damnitalltohell...

Had my truck in at the dealer today (which isn't yoru typical dealer... honest, reputable, reasonable prices) for an oil change and a tire balance. As part of their policy, they also gave the truck a once over for me and noticed some issues with my rear brakes.

To make a long story short, I need new bell cranks, drums and shoes to the tune of $864. *sigh*

 

is that as cheap as it can get

 

not sure what you mean by "bell cranks"....you mean the pivot arms for the parking brake?
Mine froze up a few times (darn salt around here!), but they can be unstuck too.

Did you consider trying it yourself?
What is the cost of just the parts? (I've done drums many times and it isn't that hard)

http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/maintenance/rearbrakes/

 

I just got done completely redoing my rear brake system for the third time yesterday. You should try to do it yourself if you can, its always a good thing to know how to do.

 

for all parts and labor from the dealer it is.

 

Yes, I believe it is the pivots for the parking brake.

I've thought about it, but so often I try to do things myself to save a few buck and only end up getting pissed off because everything is rusted together. Just not sure if I'm up for that headache again.

 

I hear ya, just trying to save you a few $$$$.
....it really helps to have air tools when working on severely rusted stuff.