got ripped off on trans rebuild

I don't take issue with the cost of the job. It might have been justified. My issue is the shop just went ahead with the job, without getting an OK for the additional money. What if the owner, didn't have the additional funds? He might lose the vehicle to the shop owner, by way of a mechanics lien. 10 percent over, maybe, but not double, without an OK.

No doubt. Dealing with older stuff as said is finicky at best. In the case of my current project on the lift the owner is helping out and getting his hands dirty so when something comes up he sees it first hand and we get the parts needed. Not everyone can do that....

JW