How much to drill and helicoil head bolt threads

[sam196370]

'91 560 SEL - I have the motor out (again) - I was going to take off the heads and bring them to be rebuilt. I've read that the bolt threads in the block need to be drilled and helicoiled; I thought this would cost $500+/-. I was told that this job - JUST drilling & helicoiling the bolt holes in the block, remember I'm bringing the engine to the shop with heads removed - would be 2 days of labor or around $1,500. Is this the market price for the job? I feel like if I had the stencil I could do it in a day.
If anyone knows of someone in the tri-state area who has the stencil and might charge a more reasonable rate, I'd appreciate it if you would let me know.
Thanks

[compress ignite]

1.'Somebody told you your Headbolt Receiver Holes are "Buggered"?
First I'd get an Expert, Unbiased (No Pony In this Race) Opinion.
2. I'd use "Timeserts" over Helicoils.
(Single piece insert,not a floppy coil.'Much Stronger.)

http://www.timesert.com/

http://www.timesert.com/html/mtrcsert.html

http://www.timesert.com/html/usefultools.html

[Hell, I'm "Risk Challenged",I'd do the Timeserts myself,IF Necessary.]

[mbdoc]

On 1986 & later MB V-8 engines...the blocks rarely need heli-coils UNLESS it was severely overheated.

[samiam44]

the older engines.. it was quite a task. You purchased a drill jig- $300, plus then would wear out several taps in the process.

IF it was overheated badly... maybe find a used motor- plentiful and cheap.

M