Any Richmond area recommendations on engine builders?

[Egz]

Do you guys have any recommendations on engine builders?  I have a short block (Ford Duratec I-4) that needs some work; just the basics: cleaning, 20 over on bore, honing, and bottom end assembly.  I'm not sure where my last engine builder moved to, and they were more of a domestic V8 kind of shop, and very pricey.

Who do you recommend?

[pipefitter]

Most any reputable shop should be able to handle that. I deal with Lewis Robinson at "The Shop". He's located in Charles City off of Rt 5. I have also dealt with Tom Ballos in Richmond.

[brandiniman]

What do you have/plan to have that Duratec in?

[Egz]

Most any reputable shop should be able to handle that. I deal with Lewis Robinson at "The Shop". He's located in Charles City off of Rt 5. I have also dealt with Tom Ballos in Richmond.

How were their labor rates at either shop?  Anyone you prefer over the other?

What do you have/plan to have that Duratec in?

Its going into my Focus.  This is actually the original engine, since it was a rebuilt engine I broke... whoops.

[pipefitter]

I prefer Lewis over anyone. I've dealt with him since I was in my early 20's. He was heavily involved with Reynolds and General Motors in the development of the Chevy Vega block, which is why I met him in the first place. He has been at this for over 40 years, has worked with David Hobbs, Paul Newman, Geoff (sp?) Bodine, and many of the local oval trackers, and drag racers. I have no idea of what he charges, but he is reasonable. He is way down Rt.5 behind the Charles City court house. He is a no BS type of guy, and I like dealing with him. Ballos is a lot closer to you and he is very good as well.