Are you unwilling to explore other options, such as the ones listed above, or perhaps a second opinion on course of action?

For $1800 a few years ago, I got a valve job, T-chain and a bunch of other parts. Please go to an independent shop.

I am not a dealer-hater like a lot of folks (I actually think they are very professional and helpful) but they just can't compete on price.

Ask someone to recommend s hop for you in the appropriate forum.

__________________
'90 300SE 298k
-300K and it gets put into retirement.
'80 300D 255k Purchased new by family in 1980.

Had a:
1973 220 (gas)
1980 300SD
1992 400E