Bill, I don't think anyone is lampooning you or your mechanic for sport... They're just highlighting that these cars are a bit unconventional. But you're right, they're not rocket science and if I can drop and separate my engine and gearbox in a couple of hours, I'm sure your man can too. The 101 book is good advice though... Even if it saves your mechanic a 1/2 hour, the book will pay for itself in hourly rates saved
Good luck