How to check an engine builder's credentials?

[MaineShark]

I may have some work on my new engine done by a local engine builder. What's the best way to make sure I don't get shoddy workmanship?

Joe

From my experience, it being a bad one

I would

Ask the mechanic questions on how he would do the build.

Look at his shop and the condition that its in and what tools he has.

If you can check the BBB, you can't please everybody so I wouldn't doubt you'll find a complaint but if there are ALOT then I would worry.

Ask previous customers, if you can.

[Jack]

Originally posted by MaineShark
I may have some work on my new engine done by a local engine builder. What's the best way to make sure I don't get shoddy workmanship?Joe

Learn as much as possible about the procedures you're gonna be paying for or relying on ... learn to know what you're looking at. I'm not trying to be a smartazz ... but the best way I've found so far is DIY ... and that ain't always perfect either. I've been building motors since my teens. Hang out with some local racers that run chevy motors ... you'll learn a lot from either dragster or circle trackers. All it took for me was one weekend of humping tires at a circle track and I was hooked ... turned into a part-time vocation. If ya try it, just remember ... that guy named Bubba with 3 green teeth and few others ... he probably knows more than you or me. BTW, by forging friendships amongst local racers ... you'll automatically find out who does good machinework ... one shop may be good at decking ... another good w/ cranks etc.
JACK