You should read the 700/900 FAQ here, and see if the job sounds like something you want to attempt. It can be done with normal tools, though sometimes breaking loose the bolts holding the crank, cam, and intermediate shaft sprockets are a real pain. And you MUST remove those in order to replace the seals behind them.

I'd order a spare seal or two when doing this, just in case one gets chewed up while installing. They're cheap. FCP Groton sells the whole kit, belt and seals for like $12. I would recommend getting a water pump too, since it's much easier to replace with all the rest out of the way. You're saving the labor cost anyway, so spend the $40.

If it sounds like you wouldn't be comfortable doing the work, by all means, have professionals take it on. $300 sounds a bit high unless it includes a water pump too- ask about that. It should only be about $22 for a Volvo brand belt, $10 each X 3 for seals, and 1.5 hours or so for labor. If they're way out of line, maybe ask another shop or get a few guys together for beer and an evening of wrenching...
--
Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: Roterande Fläkt Och Drivremmar!

Although the difficulty of the job depends on the year of your "200" the price given by the mechanic is reasonable if a careful job is done. The task is one with a lot of variation in approach to thoroughness.

What other DIY work have you done, so we could compare skills?
--
Art Benstein near Baltimore