This is a text book example of why we all need the right tools to pull our own crank arms and inspect our own bottom brackets. I'm only saying this because most people here know how easy it is to do once you've got the right tools. Then you don't have to worry about whether or not a shop is trying to snow you and sell you a new BB, or if the 'mechanic' simply doesn't know what they're talking about - which happens on occasion.

With that said; most good wrenches aren't afraid of questions and will show you just how a part is worn out. And they could have done this by letting you turn the spindle by hand once the crank arms are removed. A BB with worn bearings will feel rough and notchy as you turn it when it's still tight in the frame. (Although it might seem fine if you're holding it in your hand. It's got to be in the frame and torqued to spec'.) And yea, a cheap BB one can go south in a hurry if you're riding alot.

I run sealed, internal bearing, ISIS bottom brackets; and I'm partial to FSA Platinum Pro's and Truvativ Giga Pipe's. They can be a bit spendy if you walk into a shop, but I look for them on the internet and buy them in advance when I find a good deal. Then they're just waiting in the drawer when I need a new one.

Get some tools Lionheart. I'm only harrassing you on that point because I remember how hard it was to wait on the shop when I'd rather be out riding... Not to mention wondering if they were being straight with me. Now I don't have to! The investment will pay for itself in no time, and there's lots of books and internet sources, as well as nice people here to help you learn to do your own maintenance. It's fun, and it's also confidence building. Good luck.

DanO