[ursus]

Your description of the attitude and comments from this so-called engine builder had me grinding my molars. I once had a similar exchange with a guy who was regarded as an expert on antique engines and managed to extricate my engine from his shop before he got too far into it. When the guy gets testy about your questions, tells you he won't reveal the source or type of Babbitt he uses, states that his work is "good enough for an old Model A", scoffs at your suggestions, etc., then its time to grab your stuff and get the hell out of there.