Hi guys. I'd really appreciate a some advice/ opinions with a little problem.

Heres the story... a couple of months ago i bought a 2001 wrx sti. Looks really neat , 148000 km and seemed to drive smooth etc etc. I paid 13 grand. (Alot i know but i didnt want to go cheap and get a lemon)

The logbook only went to 70 000 km so i took it to subaru to get serviced. They recommended a major including timing belt as there was no record of it being done at 100 000. Plus new pulleys plus gaskets on rocker covers and sump.. total came to $3080.

Needless to say i was pretty cut. But let them get on with it.

After the service i noticed a ticking sound commig from the engine bay so i took it back in and they (after looking at for mabey 15 min) said it was "lower end" and id be up for a new block or mabey a 2nd hand motor.

So thats 16 grand spent plus this balls up.

I will get it to another mechanic for a second opinion , was thinking tokyo motorsport.

Anyway what would you guys do in my shoes?