Haynes (auto) Repair Manuals - any experience out there?

[bluedigger]

16. They're pretty good for common repairs.

They may not have every procedure - I'm not sure how common an oil pan replacement is. As with most things under an engine bay, getting to the part often involves removing several others for access, which is time consuming, hence the $1200 estimate. Even if this is more than your guy wants to attempt, I'd pick up the manual anyways for do it yourself maintenance and repairs - it's a 16 year old truck. Pretty much the first thing I do when I buy a used vehicle.