Dial calipers will let you someone new to measuring find out the condition of the engine, If it needs work, the machinist will do the measuring when it comes time. You sure don't need to measure in ten thousandths to know if the engine is going to the shop or not.
Dial calipers can be zeroed out anytime they need to be checked, try that with a set micrometers when you don't have calibrated gauge blocks, and quality calipers will measure down to the .001" if you take to time to learn how to use them.
I was a machinist for 11 years working in the aerospace industry, I ran all types of lathes with all types of material. Ever machine a magnesium nose cone 14" across with tolerances +.00001 to -.00005 on a manual 50 year old lathe, I have.
