My 1998 Durango front differential went out, got a replacement from a salvage yard, then the only shop I contacted to replace it (I live in a rural town) is quoting me 10 to 15 hours @ $45/hr to change it out, is this about right for this type of job?

Just from looking at it, it seems like a simple 2hr job with a garage with a lift and power tools, 10 to 15 hrs seems like how much time I would spend doing it in my driveway.

 

I doubt it is 2 hours. Your best bet is to call around and get quotes and ask about the estimated time of completion. Most shops are going to use mitchells on demand which gives them their repair times. Some may take that number up. Now this shop you have contacted doesn't sound like they have a clue and are definitely not using mitchells. It looks to me like they shot a couple numbers out there. It would be one thing to say 10-12 hours but when there is a difference of 5 hours that is getting ridiculous. It probably went down like this...

"Hey Cletus! How long will it take you to do this job?"

That is not acceptable...

 

It wouldn't even take that long to completly rebuild with new bearings, ring and pinion and seals!! It takes a Skilled mechanic with the proper tools about 30 min to have the front axle assembly out, and on the bench..

 

Front axle out on the bench 2-3 hours tops.....Sorry moabax.


I would find a different mechanic if they told me that price.