94 S10 Rear Drum Brakes Replc'g?

[Keep On Truckin]

I own a '94 S-10 4x4 4.3L w/ about 117,000 miles. It's my first vehicle I ever owned and would you believe it, the lil bugger still runs great. However, I took it into Firestone a month ago to get my front brakes repaired and turns out that my rear is in need of repairs.
Here is the quote I received from them:
Lifetim Rear Drum Brakes = 444.97 (Total w/o taxes..with is $477.30)
PAB514R Relined Brake Set = 39.00
Lifetime Rear Drum Brake Labor = 100.00
7059 Combi Kit = 17.00
8988 Brake Drum = 104.99 (2qty)
37967 R Wheel Cylinder-NC = 39.00 (2qty)

My question is could I do something like this (repairs) on my own? I know there's a book on the S-10 for "do it yourself repairs" (Hayne's Automotive Repair Manual). I'm a total noob and have NEVER repaired anything on my truck except headlights/tailights and oil changes.
OR do you think I should look else where to have my truck repaired due to the price?

Thanks and you have my permission to laugh at me for such an idiotic question!

[Jimmiz71]

I would say if you were handy with mechanical things go ahead..but since you dont seem to be then take it to a professional,It will only cost you more if you mess it up. People I know have had bad luck getting repairs done

[Jimmiz71]

i hate how your reply gets cut off, anyways I know people who have had bad luck at places like midas, Sears Auto, ect... places like that make their money off selling parts, and usually have underpaid techs installing. If I were you I would have a Brake inspection done somewhere else (Private Mechanic) Smaller places are more likely to replace the parts you really need but get quotes from many places and go from there.. Good Luck... -Jimmy

[Keep On Truckin]

Hey, Jimmy..I appreciate your help and suggestions. This machanic I know, who has repaired my tranny and A/C, may be the answer, but I need to find his number again.
I'll shop around and find the best one like you recommended....Thanks again!

[mjohn]

Keep On:
I am also of the vote to stay clear of Firestone, Midas, etc...and find a local yokal mechanic, and many backyard mechanics can do brakes...and replace parts...also you can get salvage yard parts...the thing you don't need (in my opinion) and I'm sure others here...lifetime warantee's...lifetime parts...just shop around for the drums....aftermarket parts stores are fine...and for the wheel cylinders needed...so you buy the parts and then have a mechanic...install...like being the general contractor...but for a fraction ot the cost...
Wishing you well and Keep Trucking... :o)