If he were to open another shop and if he was smart, he should not use the same name and be quiet about having anything to do with it until he turns out some good cars, if he can...
Will the purchase of any of these items move you up in social status? Will it give you great hair? Charisma? If my boss were to come over for dinner would I be promoted the next day? Interested in the couch if nobody else ends up getting it.
Another vote for the Regal 2.0t, my mom just picked one up last April. It may be just outside of your price range (I am thinking around the 17-20k if the prices are around the same as last April) but they are very nice cars and you won't want to blow your brains out every time you drive it.
I have a press at work for hydraulic fittings. I don't think that I can do the braided hose, but if you get a hose and fittings then I could probably make you a regular hose up.