Thanks!
l just returned from Afghanistan myself Dec 26, 2012. I am a aircraft mechanic too!
I have worked at several Auto Craft Garages on Air Force Bases and I have 20 years experience working on many different cars mostly German and Japanese.
I can do majority of work on BMW cars (brakes, belts, plugs, valve covers, plugs etc.... I just don't have the capability to perform programming. I charge $950 labor to do the job. Parts are $600-1000 depending on which pipe you use. I am starting to see all kinds of pipes popping up on eBay from $200-650. Though everyone, who I have performed the job for, opted for the All German Auto Pipe.
If you buy new belts and a water pump , I will replace them with new ones since they have to come off to do the pipe job.
What's funny is i did one for my BMW service advisor's friend. He did not want his buddy to pay the crazy price and he called me and ask me to do it for him
Just give me a call when you return and I will be happy to knock it out for you. Take care over there!