The A1181 is a very reliable and repairable laptop. Lots of parts out there for them. You can get them for a good price if you pay attention. As previously mentioned the test equipment for doing chip level repair can be costly. Not all repairs require that type of work. I've purchased an A1181 with the same specs you mention functioning properly with a broken LCD for $127 including shipping. Ive purchased perfectly good used LCDs for this MacBook for as low as $50 including shipping.
