Well, I've read all of the comments written about this thread. One thing is certain, we have some sharp people here.

I have to ask a couple questions, though. In reference to this "radius". The fact that there was a "bump" on it . . . bump is a bit vague, but assuming it's not a chunk, an irregular "positive (it was machined, right?). . . let's address this surface irregularity with regard to the actual spec in question. Does the print call for a radius (R) or a controlled radius (CR)?
This "bump" could constitute a "reversal. And a radius callout does not limit the surface to no reversals as a controlled radius does. (CR: The part surface within the crescent-shaped tolerance zone must be a
faired curve without reversals.)

I'm also curious why the issue of "runout" hasn't been addressed. Was there in fact a runout callout on the print?

And one other question . . . Is the customer always right? I'm sorry, but the answer is "absolutely NOT"! Now, how you handle it, how you address "their error" might be a sticky subject. And true enough, they must sign the check for the product. But I guarantee you, in my 32+ years working with GD&T (and pre Y14.5) I can tell you that if the customer's print is incorrect, then THEY must be responsible for the problems resulting from this mistake!

I've been a CMM & GD&T consultant and trainer for many years. And believe me, this can be handled.

Agreed, much of my experience is with aerospace and aircraft companies. And for the most part, they are more skilled and knowledgeable than most automotive personnel.
(I always pick on automotive because they are "usually" the worst offenders.) And when there is a discrepancy, it's resolved "on the spot". (Conference calls are usually scheduled within an hour or so.)

But even with automotive customers, if the nature of the problem is explained "tactfully", when they realize that it is in fact a problem with the print not being to spec, they will do what they must, and make the necessary corrections.

Perhaps I'm just a good "salesman". Maybe I've been lucky. But I assure you, if you approach it issue with confidence, assuming you have the spec callout handy, and you really know what you're talking about during the discussion, your customer will back down
when confronted with the actual spec in question.

I am not implying that you should get involved in a red-faced argument. You'll lose in the long run here for sure. But if you confront the customer with the proper spec, with confidence, and knowledge, they will have no choice but agree with you.

The spec is the spec. And if the part is made to spec, it's a good part. Period!

I'm also a little curious as to how this company checked "runout" of this radius.

Now THAT I'd really like to see! LOL

Wayne Knazek President/Owner:
Metrology Methods Support Technology, Inc.
http://www.thenettrainer.net/mmst
mmst@thenettrainer.net

PS: The above comments by all who participated here were well thought out. If you're interested in attending our new, live voice conference room forums, it would be my pleasure to have you attend. We'll have both Q&A forums and live training seminars. Please feel welcome to email me personally for info.