I had my '94 850 wagon in the garage recently to have the AC checked and refilled (paid $150!). They told me I need new brakes in the front (pads and rotors, Volvo parts, total $400) and what they call a 60K service (cap, rotor, wires, $510). Of course, I did not let them just do it.

I have the impression this shop is expensive (but very conveniently located) and feel I should be doing this myself. Previously I had a Corolla and changed pads and rotors myself, pretty simple once I figured out how to push the calipers in. Is it as easy on the 850? Is there anything to watch out for when doing it? (I admit that my wife gets a little nervous when I tell her that I want to do the brakes myself).
And what about the distributor cap and rotor? Should I change it? And the wires (which wires anyway)? Or is the garage just trying to milk me because they are not busy enough?

Thanks!

P.S. Are the Chilton or Haynes manuals for the 850 any good?