How much $ to replace the rack and pinion?

I just found out the rack and pinion is spewing out both ends! I was told that the whole thing needs replaced. This is definitely something for the pros to do. Thing is, what is a fair price for labor and parts? I got one estimate so far at $500 bucks, does that sound right? I will get a couple more, but I live in a small town and don't have that many choices.

'95 XLT 4 dr / 4x4 smart trac / 4.0 L

500 is a fair price, IMO

The rack goes for around $100. Some places in my area charge about $700 for a job like this. It's really not hard to do. You could do it yourself, but you will need an alignment after.

Buy a full rack...ends included. ATSCO out of Phoenix here is universally recognized as one of the best steering remanufacturers in the country. There are a lot of jobbers that carry their product. I'm betting a full rack will be around $160 exchange.

These aren't that hard to do actually. Sealing the hoses back up can be a pain...and you must have an alignment when done...but you should be able to do it for $250 yourself...including the alignment. So $250 labor from that shop (if it includes the alignment) sure doesn't sound bad to me for a quality unit.