It sounds to me that everybody has been pretty lucky. A number of years ago I went into a very reputable LBS and told them I wanted a new crank and freewheel to upgrade the drive train on my '87 TREK. I was told point blank that it couldn't be done without replacing the derailers, shifters and bottom bracket and new rear wheel. He immediately started showing me new bikes ranging in price from $1200-$3000 because my upgrade would be too expensive and my bike wasn't worth it. I went home ordered what I wanted for around $135 and lived happily ever after.
Since then a number of shops in the area have tied their website into QBP so I can order whatever I want and receive it locally. Those are the shops I deal with now.

Marc