Hueyracer.....one comment re the three hours of training prior to the check ride.....it actually is a benefit in several ways.
You will be tested in an aircraft you have flown....thus you should be more comfortable with the location of the controls for the avionics, the equipment installed on the aircraft, the local area, local area procedures, and most importantly....the Instructor will refresh you on what you most likely will be tested on by the Examiner. Usually the third hour is a mock check ride based upon what the Examiner has done in the past with other candidates.
It is not just a way for the school to separate you from some money.