Dear Tom and Ray:

I have a 1986 Chrysler New Yorker with 48,000 miles. The heater and air conditioning system blower doesn't work. The dealer tells me the part will cost $500 and the labor at least another $150. Is the dealer planning to get rich at my expense?
Jeanne

TOM: I'm confused by your letter, Jeanne.

RAY: Don't be alarmed, Jeanne. He's confused by a lot of things.

TOM: True. But I can't think of a blower anywhere in the western hemisphere that costs $500. So if all you really need is a blower motor, then you are being grossly overcharged.

RAY: But it's possible that what the dealer told you is that you need a new compressor. The compressor is the part of the air conditioning system that makes the air cold. And a compressor for this car WOULD be in the neighborhood of 500 bucks.

TOM: But that would only affect the air conditioning, and not the heating system, which is why I'm confused.

RAY: Which is ONE of the reason's he's confused. Anyway, if a compressor is what you need, Jeanne, then the price is not out of line. But if they're really trying to sell you a blower for $500, I'd blow them off and go somewhere else.