Plymouth Repair: 1995 Dodge Neon Engine Dead?, plymouth neon, dodge neon

Question
We have a 1995 Plymouth Neon automatic (2.0L, SOHC) with around 123,000 miles on it. It died the other day and the mechanic said the timing belt broke. We had never had the timing belt replaced. Crud. They replaced the belt but the engine seems to be shot.  He said the symptoms indicate the valves are bent now (I did not yet pay to have him dismantle the engine to verify the problem). He also said the water pump needs to be replaced. His total estimate is around $2300.

Other than a broken A/C, this has been a very reliable car. Since $2300 is probably greater than the value of the car we decided to junk it. When we talked to a salvage yard/repair shop, however, they said they had a 2000 Neon engine they could put in for around $1400. I don't know how much more they'd charge for the water pump.

I'm looking for advice. Is it likely bent valves?My biggest concern is replacing the engine for $1400 bucks and ending up with a car that still has problems. Will a 2000 engine work in a 1995 Neon? Do you think it will last a couple of more years? Is it better to try and repair the engine or replace it altogether?  How do you find someone trustworthy enough to replace an engine?

Thanks

Answer
it is a lot of money for what he is asking all u do is have to pull off the valve covers to check the valves and if u went doing 60 and broke the belt u should be ok as far as motor change find a shop who does a alot of it and ask the mech. to let u contact some of his customers to see if he is good or not the word of mouth is the best pete