How much to drill and helicoil head bolt threads
 

'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

Shop Around some more! Price seems high. (Two Days of Labor?)
 

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.]

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

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