I studied that and other sites prior to digging in. That one wasn't too much help as it differs a bit and didn't really show the things I wanted it to. The factory service manual details it step-step very well so there wasn't any surprises once I was inside.
"Why does a shop charge 2 each way"? Because they can. If that includes the replacement of the bearing then it is reasonable, is that is purely for tranny in/out then they are raping you, as most do. I don't have a nice shop but rather a usual garage with basic tools. I did have the luxury of that impact gun to remove the axle nuts (that is the ONLY time you need a special tool). I also had a 3/8" socket bit that fits into my Makita Electric drill that makes removing all those 10mm bolts SO easy. Remember this, it is highly likely that any shop you visit has never seen an Insight, let alone done a tranny so they are just like you - learning as they go but you'd be paying them $100+/hour. Why do shops charge $300-$500 for a 30K service when all it entails is changing the oil, checking fluids and tire pressures and maybe replace an air cleaner - total time is about 30 minutes at the most... because they can. It's called "fear factor" - if you are scared then they can charge a lot to alleviate your fears.
As for the axles, honestly that is likely the easiest part. All you do is put a large flat-blade screwdriver between the axle and the tranny and lightly pry it apart... there is nothing to it. To install them make sure they are the right length (revert back to my frustrating write-up where my pass side grew @1") - if one grows then hold it vertically and drop it @4-6" onto the floor and it will pop back together. If it's the right length then insert it gently back into your tranny them tap the end with a hammer and it will pop back in... nothing to it.
I responded to your bearing inquiry on the other page...
If you want more help you can either PM me or I can give you my phone number to help you through this if you want. I you happen to be in San Diego I'd be happy to lend a hand for beers!
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