Date:         Wed, 29 Apr 2015 18:46:48 -0400
Reply-To:     Paul van Dyck <plvandyck@MSN.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Paul van Dyck <plvandyck@MSN.COM>
Subject:      Re: Where to get a decent paint job? (long)
In-Reply-To:  <SNT004-MC1F18080Gxw0037685a@SNT004-MC1F18.hotmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Patti,
         I took mine to the local Maaco here in North NJ 9 years ago, and
while not a daily driver-especially in winter- it had accumulated various
scratches from my kids teenage years, seam rust, etc.... My auto detailer
referred me to a mobile body restoration guy who cleaned out the seams,
welded patches for the holes, painted the grills and bumpers, and removed
all exterior parts($1000). The same Maaco shop has gone private, is busy,
and happily showed me current work. My new paint looks great and cost app.
$2000. While capable of performing the restoration myself, having
professionals do it in a third the time, with cleanup, is money well spent.
I strongly suggest any special areas you want painted, such as interior door
jams, etc... get detailed in the work order along with time frame to
completion. Expect a paint run or imperfection here or there. My shop
happily buffed them out for me. I waited a few weeks then had my detailer
"seal" the paint. I've also spent close to $400 on new bits and pieces from
our various vendors. Total= app. $3500, New looking '90 Syncro tintop
sitting in my driveway, while not priceless, does make me quite happy.

Paul