Originally Posted by Shawn D

Putting it that way. That makes sense to me. I realize there are differences between marine and automotive and I don't know them. Are there any differences in Bearing clearance?

Assembling engines has always been a nerve racking kind of enjoyment for me. Not every one has been a success. One small mistake can cost a lot of time and money.

A nick of the crank, a tight bearing, machining chips in an oil galley, a missed dimension, a loose pressed in oil galley plug, Even down to simple stuff like an oil pick too close to the pan can all cause much grief.
But it is cool as heii to fire em up, run the piss out them and have them survive. And then to be able to say you did it.

I can't stress enough to find a great builder / machine shop for the guidance. While I may say I build engines, I really only assemble them. I have all machining (clearance spec'ing), Balancing, bearing blue-printing done by a very competent shop. ( Not all Are)
Assembling an engine prabably only costs $500 to $1000. The last one I quoted was $600. Really not worth it, to take the risks involved, especially if there is a warranty.

If you can have it done with a warranty for $2400, sounds like a deal.

I have a list of assembling tips some where. Things that alot peolpe either forget or just don't do. I'll see if I can't dig it up later. even if you don't do the work, you can ask who ever is if it's worth doing.