I'm not anything near experienced, other than with my own misfortune, but I'd say that if you can get someone to look at your engine before you blow it up, you're better off than waiting until after. If your engine is ticking or clicking, it's probably best to take it to someone you trust to have a good look at it.
The only problem with this seems to be that the damn engine is so wedged into the engine compartment that there's a LOT of labor costs associated with even just having it seriously looked at. That's why maybe a knowledgeable friend with lots of tools, rather than a dealership or shop, might be a good route to take, I'm thinking.
