With the recent hoopla about variations on a speedster theme (SAW, the revival of Beck, the introduction of Thunder Ranch) and all the claims of each being the better alternative, I think everyone needs to take a deep breath and remember what motivated them to buy a replica. Period.
Leader has had luck with JPS, probably at a threat to his personal sanity, but that's why two Johns are seldom alike...ask any hooker. McSween faced some ill-fortune but went right back to JPS and had the choice not to.
Steven Oddfellow Longsworth O'Brien also opted to seek a new manufacturer with his next build. I will likely do that as well, but only because I have maximized my current ride and vision.
Like Steven, Stan has also built on his speedster experience and has opted to move on to Intermeccanica. JimBob of red dirt and high mileage fame has done the same. As has been pointed out ad nauseum, each decision to buy is a good one and for a whole bunch of different reasons.
I found myself in Vince's corner back when GB would boast not post, about his IMs. I used to rail at each remark, made up words like InterMcManiac, and ultimately found myself in a pissing contest over engines that set me back a pretty penny, just so I could be right.
Big frigging deal. What was right for GB was not right for me but I couldn't let it go quietly (or inexpensively) But what got lost in the delivery was Henry built a great car (and must have the patience of Jobe to deal with perfectionists!)
I've been treated badly by builders and vendors who will remain nameless. I have heard war stories about less than adequate customer service and delivery times and a host of after the sale woes.
Even after my mouthing off about the InterMcManiacs it was Henry who ultimately rallied and saved my engine's bacon at Knotts that first year. I think Intermeccanica deserves a little positive press without all the green-eye. Stan certainly presented his opinion in a non-GB sorta way.
Come on guys. Play nice or Steven will write more poetry!