desertdatsuns.net

For years, I've been looking for a reliable, skilled paint/body person (or shop), preferably west of downtown.

I've had three vehicles painted this year, and I was consistently disappointed with the attention to detail, work ethic, professionalism, and overall outcome of all three. Rookie mistakes, but their bluster and bravado would make you think they're doing concours work.

I've had $15k paint jobs and $1500 jobs, so it's not like I have unreasonable expectations. I just want someone who doesn't overpromise and under-deliver. Tired of clowns and big-talkers.

I'm looking to have a budget project done very soon (quick scuff and respray), and a major project (fiberglass bonding, bodywork, and rotisserie paintwork) in the fall. I'd like one to be the test-case for the second one.

Looking for a trusted reference. Thanks in advance, guys!

Talk to Dylan at Elevens Paint and Fiber. He does great work for fair prices.

Not cheap though unless you use cheap materials. Then it will still look great, but only for a few years.

Craig had his white Z shot at Maaco and it looked nice. I think he did all the prep himself though.

Have been talking with him and Abraham... They're on-hold until they get caught up...

They might be a good choice for my big project (Becky's Z), but probably not cost-effective for this other gig (which needs a driver-quality respray in the original color).

Since the last post, I've reached out to three recommended shops.

All three have flaked - Either no return call, no follow up, or no interest in anything besides insurance jobs.

Give Apicella Designs a call. They aren't on the west side - but may be able to help you out.

I know the owner (Brad) and he is a honest guy and has done some pretty nice cars over the years. I don't know if what you are looking for is in his interest as they specialize in 50s chevy trucks and American cars - but it would be worth a call.


I would normally recommend the shop I used to work at - but they are a little ridiculous on price.

apicelladesigns.com

602-730-5339
Tell him the Paul referred you.

Hittman, I can vouch for Brad being a great guy and I have been to his shop and seen some of the trucks he's done after Paul's referral.

Thanks guys...

I was hoping to use the first job (simple, basic, scuff and spray) as an "interview" for the next job (which will be in-depth and very involved).

Can't believe this is so difficult.

I'll hit up Brad tomorrow. Thanks Paul and Randy.

you can try my guy who is painting my 521 it was robin egg blue now plum crazy purple/ silver metallic. he is off of 79th ave and peoria ave. his name is josiah you should see his work he has 2 tricked out House Of Color with metal flake painted old school mazda trucks and he recently done a 2015 challenger total color change. and has won some awards with his rides. just let me know if /when you want to touch basis with him. he is pretty fair on price also and he did a late 90's camaro color change from silver to tangelo orange also House Of Color. he also does interior work