I understand your anger. Coming from areas with strict commercial rules (including the obligation to display fares) doesnt prepare you well for latin american reality.
I found contacting local motorcycle clubs before any important repairs to be a safe solution to avoid to hit bad apples. Most clubs will not only give you tips, but also welcome you for a friendly chat or a meal.
I also wouldnt buy a new 'brandy' machine to travel south of the border. 1990s overlanders are reknown for their easy and cost effective maintainance. The less you are visible/watched/envied, the more you can enjoy to observe your surroundings and melt in the atmosphere.
When i got my cylender reshaped in Formosa, i gave the motorcycle to one of the local motorcycle clubs mechanic. And even tho he was a member, he insisted in me watching his repairs, since trust is not part of the culture down there.
The only problem i can see with such posts is that even tho most bikers are good willed, some might use forums to discriminate competitors. We ve seen on those forums some epic fights between people living off the motorcycling travelling industry. That s why repetitive positive reports over time are more constructive and reassuring.
 chug
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