Drew, thanks for the advice. I checked the forum for recommended shops in my area. So far, two other shops have offered to make the repairs for considerably less money and the parts cost is substantially lower. Also, both shops have been in business working on MBs exclusively for over 40 years - both family run businesses.

Devil, it's bad form to make assumptions about me. My last experience with the shop in question resulted in a 43% cost overrun. This shop sources its parts from one supplier which is bad business. Everyone should source from mutiple suppliers to keep everyone honest. I believe that everyone should make a fair profit, but ripping someone off is unacceptable. The internet has leveled the playing field. Touche.

P.S. The shop in question is looking into Importec and Meridian as new suppliers.