Question How do I go about selecting a quality repair and paint facility for a classic car. I have a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda convertable that has been neglected for many years. I am ready to restore it but I want it done correctly. It will be a driver so I do not need a concourse/frame-off resto but I do want it to be very nice. What questions should I ask when getting estimates?
How can I get unbiased references on local shops? Is there a rating system for specialty shops? Do you know anyone in the upstate South Carolina area who does good work?
AnswerThere is no easy way to do this. Join your local MOPAR club and ask around amongst the members, then go to the recommended shops and see if you agree with them about quality standards. I am having a 1967 Imperial done right now - I am into it over $15,000 so far, because I am very fussy. Last year, I did my 69 Newport Convertible for less than $1000, and to the amateur, it looked just as good, so you really have to dig deep to find out what you will be getting, for how much and how long it will take (I'm over 2 years into the Imperial, and it ain't done yet!, but the shop does Pebble Beach quality restorations, and that's what I want. Typically, these take about 5 years, and on more valuable cars, it isn't unheard of to spend $250,000 on restoration. The shop that is doing the Imperial will not take a job unless it is understood that they are going to do a concours quality restoration - they won't risk their reputation by doing a cheap job!.
I know this isn't much help, but you need someone to tell you this ain't easy, you need to do the legwork yourself, and be very aware of what you are getting yourself into!
I'm on the west coast, so I can't help you with names of any shops. I'm sure you have heard of White Post in Virginia, but unless you are doing a concours restoration, you don't want to talk to them.
Dick
