Land Rover Repair: Why my range rover wont shift into reverse?, general mechanics, salvage yards

Question
I recently bought a '89 range rover and after 2 weeks of having it, it wont go
in reverse.  It is also making a rattling sound as well. I took it into a mechanic
and they said that even though they don't know what is wrong with it the
repairs will be close to 3000.00, that is more than I paid for the car.  I'm a
poor college student and cant afford that.  Am i being taken advantage of?
also, what do you think the problem is? I'd really appreciate any help.
kindly,
josie  

Answer
Hi Josie,

Sounds like it may be the transfer case (transfer gearbox) or the transmission.  Most likely, it's the transfer gearbox.  

There is a company on-line that can ship this part free and the cost of the TG is about $1695 plus tax.  This is a rebuilt TG.  Go to http://4x4transfercases.com/ to see more info.

You can also consider salvaged parts from www.car-part.com

A quick search of the salvage yards revealed prices for a TG starting at $275 and going as high $1250.  Most general mechanics can doo the work for you, however, there a some specific requirements and expertise that only LR mechanics have.  

YOu should be able to negotiate with a local LR mechanic to do the work.

Lastly,  as a student you should consider what you plan to do with your Rangie.  It's an older model and almost any major part will cost you well over $1000 or more.  For a student, driving an older Rangie can be very expensive.

Best of luck,

JohnMc