Bodyshop recommendations in Socal?

[Fonz]

Hey guys, anyone know a good place to drop off my 2000? the car has light rust and I'm looking for someone that really catches the details. No half-ass work. (MaCo)

Might be too much to ask but rough cost estimates would be great.

[So Cal Mark]

expect to spend in the 3k range if they are going to do all of the work

[Fonz]

I was hoping to do some of the work my self, i.e. part removal and stripping. I'm looking to spend just under 2000 but 3000 was the realistic price I was expecting. In the end its not really about price but a shop that knows its way around a classic car.
Thanks for the reply SoCal Mark

[Fonz]

Not many responses so maybe I should rephrase my question: what are you guys getting done at body shops and how much is draining from your wallets?

[So Cal Mark]

I just don't have any contacts in the SD area. The amount of prep you do will have a big effect on the final price. I've had quotes on customer cars ranging from $1800 to $4000 depending on how much work is needed, paint and color choice, etc. Expect to save about $500 if you remove and install all of the trim and chrome yourself. Sanding, repairs etc will save lots more.

[baltobernie]

San Diego can't be much more expensive than Washington, DC, and I paid $400 to have my Spider wiped down, masked and painted six consecutive coats; two primer and four color. Took him most of an afternoon. I did all the "before and after" sanding, spot priming, color sanding and polishing. You didn't mention if you wanted single-stage or two-stage; that's a big variable. And then there's the incredible, unbelievable price of the paint itself. "Trade price" for single-stage PPG was $760 (them's US dollars) for primer, paint, hardener, paper, etc. and I didn't have much left over; (cash or materials )

[So Cal Mark]

in most areas of So Cal, water-borne paint is now required

[Fonz]

in most areas of So Cal, water-borne paint is now required

I hear ya'

Thanks for the replies guys, Im glad its an active forum.
I have an acquaintance near my workplace I can talk to come tuesday . As for now the car has been stripped of its interior which was in fair condition except for the carpeting. Dynamat has been ordered and I will probably start a build thread soon.

[Fonz]

got a quote today and it will cost me a thousand dollars for everything. (and I mean everything)

[So Cal Mark]

that's very cheap for a complete paint job these days

[Fonz]

It is, I was very surprised. Ill see if I will recommend the place after the job is done.

[So Cal Mark]

have you seen any of their work?

[Fonz]

Yes I have and it is very impressive. Ill take some pictures next time I go to the shop. As for now I am holding back on sending it in until next month or November.

[fishboy]

Hey Fonz,
any information on your body/paint shop? did you get your work done? any pics of your car or other work from them? I am looking for body and paint on my car right now.
Thanks in advance

[Fonz]

Hey fish boy I haven't gotten the car painted yet, I am waiting for the short California rainy season to be over. I will post shop information once the car is out of their shop.