I only go to the local Napa & Schuck's, etc. when absolutely necessary. I generally just try to avoid them altogether. Our local Napa has a great machinist working there, apparently. So I dropped off my 216 with him and told him what I wanted done. He said to give him a week and he'd have it done. About 10 days later I called to check on it and they told me he just left for a two week vacation. When I asked them to check on the engine they couldn't even find it. So I went down there and found it ... right where I left it 10 days before! They never even touched it. Actually, alot of it got scattered but I was able to find everything. What a mess! I've since found an awesome independent machine shop where I've had all my work done. I've also found a great independent auto parts store who does stuff like turning brake drums, flywheels, etc. He's always there, very knowledgeable, helpful, encouraging, goes out of his way to get you what you need. I figure I'd much rather pay a little more for my parts and supplies and get great service than give my money to the chains, where I'm just another bozo walking through the door looking at the crappy junk they try to pass off as "parts". Besides, have you ever noticed the clientele that those places attract? I always feel like I'm interrupting a drug deal in the parking lot! All I can say is the independent machinist and the parts guy know my name and they treat me like a human being. THAT's where my money is going, and believe me, I've spent ALOT of it with both guys lately. The machinist actually gave me $200 for my 216 after I found my 228 that he worked on. He may turn around and sell it for $300 but that doesn't bother me a bit. He's a good guy.
