My truck needs the brakes done. My mechanic said $720 for parts and labor. I don't have that kind of money but need my truck running properly. How much should getting new rotors and pads cost and is it something i should attempt myself? thanks for your time and input.

 

Yes, do it yourself with hand tools and one saturday. How many miles on your truck? 2 or 4wd?

 

Absolute YES , I did it with NO brake experience and minimal mechanical exp, just pads a clamp and a socket set a dozen beer and an afternoon. Go for it save at least 400 bucks.
do a search on the net for reference pics and get at it.

 

X3 - do it yourself.

Since its your first time...
You can probably find a friend that has done it and buy a case of beer for the free help!

or buy a Haynes manual... they have detailed directions and pictures and its much cheaper than paying a mechanic

 

I would do it yourself. Brakes are really not that hard. I am sure if you ask your buddies, someone has to know somebody that would give you a hand and show you how to do it. Its not that hard. They can tell you what to do and be there to guide you if you have a problem.

 

The average guy with average experience with hand tools can do the job.

There is a thread here:

Link

That has a few good pics and descriptions on the basics. But definitely get a Haynes or Chiltons book (sometimes a local library has them if you don't want to buy).

Check out one of your local parts stores on-line, sometimes they have online guides for free, too, and you can price out all the parts you'll need. You can easily cut your bill in half by doing it yourself.