drew

But wow, Eric your price seems so unreal! Would love to know which mechanic was that?!

That is a very good price, but the mechanic would have to be familiar with MR2's, and do the job without removing the motor from the car. A bit of a PITA to do in the tight space, but it can be done. 
 
I think some of the high quotes people get is because some mechanics would be unfamiliar with MR2's, and may not want the job anyway.

Yeah mine was done without removing the engine. I think the higher quotes are for removing the engine maybe?. At the time i thought if it was gonna cost more than 1.5k and they were gonna remove the engine, i may as well buy all the upgrades i wanted intercooler turbo and may as well rebuild and strengthen the engine. 

Drew where bouts are u in syd?

I'm a mechanic myself. Done plenty of timing belts, clutches and even caldina engine swap on my sdub. Plenty of experience with the mr2.

If your interested I can do the job for you. I work at a Toyota dealership so I'm Toyota trained =p