Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1938 Cadillac, auto restorer, engine interior

Question
Hello Dick  -

I'm wondering if you can reccommend a professional classic auto restorer who does good work at a fair price.  I'm considering buying a 38 Cadillac in fair condition.

Bill
wdobni@comcast.net

Answer
I have a shop near me in the southwestern part of California that does very good work, but they are not cheap.   I believe that White Post in Virginia is also an honest shop, but again, they are very expensive.  There are good shops around the country in various locations that have good reputations, but you get what you pay for in restoration work.  

The actual answer to your quest will require a lot more information to be of much help.

1.  Where are you located?  Shop labor rates run from $50 to $100 an hour, and even more, in different parts of the country.
2.  What does the car need to have done to it (meaning body, paint, chrome, engine, interior etc.)
3.  Are you hoping to have the car restored for less than it would bring on a sale?  If so, forget it, it can't be done unless you do all the work yourself and are very skilled.
4.  Are you aware that a complete restoration on a 38 Cadillac can easily get deep into the 5 figures, depending on what the car needs and how picky you are - are you prepared for that?

Anyway, post a "follow up" question to me with more information, and I'll try to be more helpful.

Dick