[Turk]

Going with the builder that is close to you gives you only one advantage. If he is not a good builder he can do it again and again without spending too much time shipping the motor back and forth.
If he is a bad builder it makes it easier to take him to court if he won;t stand behind it.
If the engine builders were of equal quality surely opt for the one closer to you.
If you don't have a builder nearby, shipping your engine 500 miles vs. 1500 miles does not guarantee a thing. Other than you saved 1000 miles.

TURK