galen govier

What service does he provide that people cannot do themselves with research?

None, but there was a time when putting his name on your documentation solidified the pedigree of your car. Nowadays, he has tarnished his name to the point where others more friendly, and equally as knowledgeable have taken his place. Sadly, power and knowledge go to peoples heads, and ruins their reputation, as is the case here. You can lump him into the ranks of Worman and D’augistino, 2 knowledgeable guys who’s attitudes about themselves have tarnished their contributions to the hobby. There are many more people that are humble and friendly in the hobby now that people would rather go to.