"butch33 via CarKB.com" <u17156@uwe> wrote
> thanks for the insight folks....
>
> now , how much can I expect the job to cost at a honda
dealer shop ? --

$400-$700 (American dollars) range is usual in the U.S.

> and
> should I do the water pump @ same time?

This is customary on early c. 1990 Hondas. Keep checking
back for others' input. Also, there is a "timing belt
tensioner" that, from reports here, people say should be
replaced about the second TB job of a car's life. Its
bearings should at least be checked, IIRC.

> I dont have the time to look for someone who could do the
job ''on the side''
> for much less -so i'd prefer to get soaked by the dealer.
>
> great service tech though -he's very honest

The dealer will more likely do it right, especially if you
sense the service tech is good. And, yes, independent shops
do mess up. In sum, this job is not a bad one to have done
at the dealer's.