[Scorpner]

I'm not from the area but have a couple of comments/ideas.

Don't just look at a shop, but the person actually building the engine. You could have three guys in a place, with only one or two that really know what they're doing. Talk to them enough and make sure the guy you've talked to actually does the work. Warranty's are a separate issue, but you're right, how they respond when something goes wrong is a major factor for me and it says a lot about the company.

The other thing is if you can't find anyone nearby I guess I would consider a crate motor. I don't know what you're rebuilding, but GM has a pretty good selection with warranties and I've read that this is a good option sometimes. IIRC, some of the magazines have recommended this while swapping out a cam or other minor things.

I wish you luck in your search.