Just titled it yesterday, less than 500 miles in the odo, haven't even vtec'd it yet! Guy in a big Dodge pickup backs into the front end; hood and bumper are now slightly caved in. So now I'm looking for a good body shop in St. Louis, MO. Some of them advertise "State of the Art " spray booth. Does this really make a difference?

 

I don't think it matters much, its more the painter on how it comes out in the end.

 

Oh man I am sorry to hear about that. What you want to do is go to a very reputable autobody repair shop. If you really want to get picky, go to someone that deals in high-end autos or has experience in dealing with such makes for peace of mind.

 

state of the art being a bake booth?


check to see if they have at least a sealed booth, with dust collector.

backyard open element job sucks.

 

I had a very similar experience. Truck guy reversed into me at a red light.
I knew someone in autobody, but had not seen his work. He gave me a great quote, about half of other shops. So I tried it out. He really sucked! I could not believe how much he sucked! It was so bad that I won't even take it back for him to fix. Learn from my mistake, do not go to a cheap paint shop. Inspect their shop and finished products. Insurance was not involved in my case. The damage was superficial and I didn't want an accident report on my ride. Nevertheless, do it right the first time and you won't have to pay Twice like me.

 

No. Since your car is silver, an old man in a garage with 40 years spray experience will do a MUCH better job than any state of the art BS. Skill is much more important than equipment. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying.

Post up in your local forum. I am sure someone can direct you to a good shop.

 

I think finding an old man with 40 yrs experience will be harder than you think. But then again, according to NFRs2000NYC I am lying.

 

state of the art = better filtration .. less dust and lint while paint.. so u dont get it under the paint..
filter air in the room
be my guess. which is good to have but if they lack experience .. its a waste lol

 

Down draft booth is a much, much cleaner enviroment. There will be less dirt in your paint. Experiened painter helps, too.

 

Find a car club, hotrod club antique auto club in your area and ask for some recs. these guys always know where and where not to take your car.