I can understand both sides of the argument...
However, I do know a mate replaced his hydro/179 in his EJ sedan and replaced it with a 186/trimatic and HR disc front end and he paid $3500 at a workshop - so the quote seems about right.
Just to do my HR brakes myself its cost
rotors - $220 for pair (new)
master cylinder - $88 reco
pads - $50
cylinders - $50
shoes - $59
bearings - $50 set of 2
booster - reco $225 (but they are about $582 new at repco
caliper reco - $220 pair (mates rates)
brake fluid - $10
bearing grease - $5
Thats just shy of a grand and i havent even paid someone to connect the lines... so an HR front, motor and trans fitted without getting your hands dirty is reasonable.
(not to mention spending three hours trying to pop out a bearing cup)
on the other hand knowing that you can buy a red motor for $250 that realisticaly may run like a dream forever makes you think you can do it cheaper... and i don't doubt it can be done.
If i knew how to do everything I would, but unfortunatly I don't. Until I find someone whos willing to help me out I just have to pay.
Although i'e got a big hole burnt in my busted arse student pocket I'm having a ball playing with my old bomb.
We just need to find a mechanic that charges $20 an hour!!!!!
my two cents
Dave