You can please some people all of the time, you can please all people some of the time, but you CAN'T please ALL of the people ALL of the time. -Even though, if you own you're own business, you should TRY. Been there, done that.
Usually, it's not a lack of "trying" to please a customer by most vendors here that get them in trouble. There are just some folks out there (you know who you are) that no matter what you do as a company, you will not please them. Period.
I have a SA 427SO in my SPF. The engine was built for my buddy who was the previous owner of my car, and he had requested a few specific items that he wanted done to the engine, which Bill did (including helicoils in all bolt holes - which is a pain for the builder). Everything was done to my friends spec's. and the engine has always run very strong. When I bought the car, there was a small
oil leak coming from the passanger side, rear of the engine where the intake and head meet. I know this is a area known for leaking so I called Bill P. looking for some advice on gaskets, silicone, and tearing it apart and putting it back together. He told me if I could get the car to him he would be happy to fix it for me, and I'm not even the guy who bought it from him! Since I live in Chicago, I decided to take it to my local builder (who'm I've done business with in the past) and Bill told me to make sure my mechanic calls him when he's ready to do the work. I've also spoke with Bill on advice about changing my
oil pan. He has always taken the time to speak with me (or call me back when he has time) about any questions I have on my engine. Super nice guy (IMO) and he knows his $hit when it comes to FE's. I wouldn't hesitate to give him my business.
I don't have anything against the Ford crate engines (although, unlike coloradocobras experience, everyone I know that has one has had problems - especially the early 514's and 392's). I think they're a lot of bang for the buck, ......BUT, with builders like Bill P., Gessford, Eric @ PE, Keith Craft, etc..... why not put a custom built motor in your Cobra and get more peace of mind.
JMHO.