My guess would be that if people like "aaron_d" ( and myself for that matter) had the funds to just dispose of their current engine they would not be on the Forum asking for advice and help. There are times when the 2L-TE haters need to stay on the sideline and this thread represents one of those times.
.........Just my opinion..........................1978HJ45
Dunno if you are referring to my post or what but I'll add a bit of back ground info.
I tried tuning a 2LT. By the time I had done a fair few mods the cost was almost as much as a 1kz engine. I asked myself why am I wasting $$$ on an engine when an upgrade is easily obtainable. So I saved a bit each month until I had enough for a 1kz.
You are right about funds. However, if one has funds for mods, the disposable income is available.
An ECU chip (add on or whatever), decent intercooler, fuel pump mod, boost gauge and controller is almost approaching the price of a 1kz and in some cases exceeds.
Of course it depends on the owner, insurance cover etc etc etc.
For 2LTe tuning here's a list of items to do:
1. Piggy back chip for ECU.
2. 2.5" dump valve mod on turbo.
3. 2.5" exhaust system.
4. Boost gauge and boost controller. Electronic better...but manual is cheaper.
5. Front mount intercooler.
6. More extremem would be to upgrade the turbo.
Add the cost up and you will see my point over the long term.