Need Referral for Body Work

[andrewc4]

I own a 1994 Coupe, a daily driver. The body was in almost perfect condition, Metallic Green.

Evidently, someone threw a rock into the parking garage at my job and damaged the Front Bumper Fascia, the paint is flaked and broken off, and the Fascia is no longer flat. The damage is almost three inches in diameter to the right and below the left head light assembly.

Although I do a great deal of work myself, I am not an artist and I'd like, if at all possible, the repair to be perfect.

I need a referral to someone who does body work and painting, not just body work, but Corvette quality body work, who has experience with C4 repairs and materials
The repair guy must be located in South Florida, where I live.

 

[Ken]

Bumped to the top in hopes of getting you an answer this time around.

 

[andrewc4]

Thanks, I've gone to a local car show and met the owner of a body shop who had a really beautiful 67 big block at the show, amazing car, in amazing condition, factory air. He specializes in selling and servicing domestic and foreign sports cars. He'll remove, repair and repaint the front bumper facia for $1000. Of course he's a saleman, and sounded like if I wanted the car to have a concourse quality repair, he's the guy. Problem is, the car is a daily driver, (and I mean driver, 84 miles a day round trip to work).

I also received a recommendation from the president of the local chapter "America's Club", haven't called that shop.

I'd also like to say the that chapter president was really helpful, and was glad to answer a bunch of questions from a 'vette newbie'.
Any have a feeling about the price?

 

[G Winter]

I would take it to a GOOD local body shop and get and estimate. This would give you a base to compare to. That way you know what kind of premium he is charging. I assume that the fascia has to be removed to be properly repaired, so considering labor rates in FL the price don't seem out of line.
Just my HO .

 

[andrewc4]

very good idea - thanks

 

[vee93]

Are you looking for a local bodyshop? If not-- and don't mind traveling, come on up to Jackson, Mississippi to the Hardy Brothers Paint & Body Shop. The brothers (Jack and Wayne), are Corvette specialists. They own Vettes too and as I've posted in here somewhere before, they have a buncha trophies to boot!!! My Vette is there now after it was butchered at my insurance company's recommended body shop.
Here're the vital statistics:
Hardy Brothers Paint & Body Shop
3746 I-55 South
Jackson, Ms.
(601)371-2562

 

[vee93]

Just found out exactly where you are via my Atlas!!! :eek
Okay..., so...., maybe you can call first and they can recommend someone in your area.

 

[XLR8]

I had an issue with my '94 about 3 years ago... the gap between the front fascia and hood was too close on one side, and everytime I opened the hood it would catch. I was worried that I was going to break something so I took it to a local body shop - Tony's Paint and Body Shop in Gulfport MS.

Tony repaired the fascia (re-aligned it, I suppose), painted the fascia, the hood, and fenders on both sides back to the doors - charged me about $480.

Of course, the shop location does you no good, but maybe the price he charged helps your search.

- JAG