Smitty,

You're right about how people who make a living doing something may react, when someone, who doesn't offers an explanation to a problem they can't solve.

I usually cough my offer of information I've obtained by saying self-deprecating remarks like "I'm no mechanic or expert, but I came across this information I want to share with you in case it is helpful." I find that approach usually protects egos. Sometimes you can get help from the most unexpected sources. I also couch my "suggestion" that perhaps this information might help another customer too. But again, your point is well taken.

Hugh