Not sure what you're on about. Where does it say that something regarding QC is "optional dependent on price"? Lightcarbon specifically states that they produce their frames to the Z3 standard.

I get the feeling you're on some personal crusade, that doesn't help anyone in this discussion. I'm all for constructive criticism, but your baseless accusations(as in, you provide no proof for your statements) are less than helpful and quite the distraction.

even then, the restaurant should be given the opportunity to make it right.

There is a lot of fuss being made here about one frame. i think there will be QC issues but as long as the companies deal with it in the right way (in the end the customer should be satisfied with what they got), for me this is acceptable.
After all, to expect flawless QC at a fraction of the price for western brands is quite unrealistic.

On a different note: does anybody have the exact clearance for the fork and seat stays? Im wondering if 32 mm really is the limit or if i can push it a couple more mm if necessary.

not to worry, i have ordered an endoscope already and intend to thoroughly check the frame once i have it in my hands. I will share here if i find any issues.

But i don't think it's brave of me to order one - the risk, at least in my view, is fairly small. And that, for me, is okay, especially given the prices we're discussing.
And if there's any issues, i have all winter to get this sorted with LC ...

Seems like it would be easier to have the manufacturer send a video with their own boroscope. Then you dont have to buy a camera or go through the hassle of swapping frames. And it will force them to step up their QC

Maybe ignorant on my part but knock on wood I havent heard of any issues with structural integrity on Chinese frames recently. I think these companies get that injuring/maiming/killing their customer base is prob not good for business. And they are not new to the game either. Maybe Im too optimistic

for my cover, there's nothing need to be "aligned", the cover closed and locked snugly. Just with bare hand I can lift the cover so easily. Mostly likely the whole piece will fell off easily over a bump. Currently I'm tying a velcro strap over the downtube to strap it down just with a piece of mine.

UPDATE: Long Teng now blamed the excessive paint on the edge of the cover  and downtube that prevent the cover to be locked securely, want me to use a rasp to grind off the excessive paint on the edge along the cover and the downtube opening