[SS427]

One of my biggest pet peaves and most frequent conversations I have with restoration manufactures is their quality of reproductions. When it comes to emblems, weatherstrip, brackets, decals, etc, it typically costs no more to do it right the first time then to half ass it. I typically spend 1-2 hours "re-restoring" an aftermarket wiring harness because of incorrect connectos and wrong colored wires (green). It would cost those manufactures $0 to make that correct. For emblems, weatherstrip, etc, I doubt it would add $5 to a $50,000 mold.

As an example of a decal, someone is being paid to sit behind a drafting table or computer and design the placement, font, color etc. It would have cost no more to do it "exact" than to do it "close". Note posi decals and plastic posi tags.

With regards to exhausts systems, you are correct as and per previous conversations I have had with Gardner, it does cost more to make some of the parts such as the J-hook and rivets. The rear muffler bracket however could be more exacting without expense (I think). It would also be nice to have the part number stamped into the resonator. I for one would be very willing to pay more for an exact part so that my restorations are a step ahead of someone elses. That is what seperates us from the wanna be's and also gives our customers their moneys worth.

With that being said, there is obiously a market for "close enoughs". Some maufactures offer a "close" and an "exact" reproduction in their catalogs with the "exacts" being more expensive. I give my customers the option but if it is on a high dollar car or Diamond/Bloomington or what ever, the dollar difference is rarely an issue.

When looking at other Chevelles at shows, one of the first places I look at on an "exact restoration" is the owners exaust hangers. 1 out of 10 has the J-hooks. I spent several hundred dollars restoring, plating and remounting the original J-hook to your rubber and bracket. My customer had no concern there as he wants it exact and I am very pleased with the outcome. I likely spent $500 improving your exaust system on a current restoration but that is what makes it a step ahead.

In closing, let me say that this is in no way vendor bashing as I truly feel your system is leaps and bounds ahead of others out there. I also recommend it to everyone as an only choice. Your service is also second to none and you are always willing to help your customers and listen. Would I pay more to get an improved system, I already did. Maybe I am a minority but I sure hear a lot of reproduction complaints (decals, brackets, weatherstrip, etc) on other BB's.

[Edited by SS427 (05-10-2002 at 09:55 AM).]