Think twice about volunteering for this job, esp since you've never done it. Someone who runs his car out of oil doesn't sound like a good car person. After you put in all your sweat and busted knuckles you may clear $1000 (for an engine of unknown quality), but when he breaks it again, he will blame you. The shop quote wasn't bad -I'd recommend he take it.

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Prost!

1 I'm a student looking to add some cash to the bank 2 Like I said long story but that is not the story. He's not the kind o guy who "runs his car out of oil" in fact He is quite regular with his maintenance and had already put over 1500$ into the car trying to repair one problem. then it started smoking under load. (from what i understand there is no dipstick or that year model to check the oil with.) the idiot light never came on. but the check engine light did, that being said he was very very concerned about the smoke and had it to the shop because he knew it had a problem. the motor died AT the shop with the mechanic who didn't try to check the oil before he started it.
3 The shop started before he could tell them otherwise.
4 So are there any trick to changing a motor in a c class? Specifically the C240??? I believe that was my original question and not whether or not I should pursue it. Item number one determined that already. $1000 for 3 days of "fun" is well worth it in my book.