Virgil,
I know exactly how you feel. When I inspect a job, I expect it to meet the code (which, after all, is a set of MINIMUM standards). In return, I'm looked at as (and called) a code Nazi, a self-important bureaucrat, and some things I can't print here. Cutting corners isn't the answer, it's the problem. Don't feel bad about sticking to your guns. After all, you're the guy who has to look in the mirror when you shave. You don't want to stop being able to look yourself in the eye. A good suggestion was made about deflecting the criticism to the inspector. That's one of the things we're here for. I try to strike a balance between the letter of the code and the spirit of the code, and I'm sure you do too. All good electricians and inspectors should strive to do that. Shake this one off, and get on down the road. Sounds like you're not only lucky to be shed of your former partner, but rid of this GC as well. They both sound like a couple of snakes...
