Well, you have a point, and it is valid. Just like a cylinderhead, an untutored person with a grinder can do a lot of harm. I remember a few years ago that a member used a ridge reamer and had to buy oversize pistons as the standard pistons had the top ring getting into the reamed area.

However, if the rods won't clear the camshaft or the block, what do you suggest? Buy a smaller base circle cam? Disassemble the block and send the rotating assembly out to be reground for a new set of 2.200" rods? Grind, new rods, rebalance all cost money. What about the block? If you cannot modify the block to get clearance then the whole thing comes out. What then? Buy a new block? Cut the counterweights in a lathe even though it's a heck of a job with interrupted cuts all over the place? AndyF says it can be done. Then rebalance.

Many times an experienced engine builder will grind a small bit of something to get clearance. This doesn't seem to influence longevity. I don't think they are being irresponsible.

We need to remember that an engine is just a greasy lump of cast iron and doesn't know if what you did to it was the proper method or not.

Peace to you All,
R.