Doing It Right?

The cold start tapping of a lifter had the owner of the shop impress upon me the need to do the job right...

Here's a list of what he'd charge to for the whole thing:

His labor - $1,417. (13.5 hours at $105).
LS7 lifter set - $179.99
2x LS3 head gaskets - $88.72
2x valve cover gaskets - $39.76
8x spark plugs - $31.92
Plug wire set - $49.99
ARP head bolt kit - $124.63
Valve stem seal kit - $46.00
2x Exhaust manifold gasket - $15.98
Intake manifold gasket set - $64.34
Beehive spring kit - $200
2 gal DexCool - $33.90
Amsoil oil change and filter - $99.95


Getting the following done to the heads is $600
Surface the heads
Valve job
Install valve stem seal kit

Grand total with tax, title and license: $3,223.67.

There's a huge part of me that's thinking that it can be done in my garage for a lot less.

Like Retired Wrench says, it's easier than that clutch.  Hell, it's easier than dropping the gas tank and I did that three times!

Bad luck got me on the tank.

I prolly won't get the parts deals he's getting, but...  I think I can do the lifters for about $500.

I don't really WANNA, but I can.  It'll be kinda nice to work on TOP of the car for a change.

The real danger is an attack of the stupids and putting in a new cam...  The car makes enough power now, I don't need more because I don't use it.