I trusted Smitty's Classics with my 1937 Chevrolet business coupe, and it turned out to be one of the most disappointing experiences I've ever had with a restoration shop.
I brought the car in for a simple, straightforward job: replacing the gas tank, which I personally supplied. Instead, before any work began, I was required to sign a contract giving Smitty's full discretion to perform any repairs they deemed necessary--at my expense. Unfortunately, they took full advantage of that clause.
Without my request, they chose to rebuild the master cylinder and wheel cylinders--components that were working perfectly when the car arrived. Throughout the process, I was repeatedly asked to come down to the shop and bring more money. After four to five weeks, I was told the car was "finished" and "running perfectly."
When I arrived, I had nearly $11,000 to add to the $10,000 I had already paid them. Yet the car would not run, and the brakes no longer worked at all. Despite this, I was still required to pay the remaining balance in full.
Later that week, when I called for an update, I was casually informed that the entire shop had gone to Barrett-Jackson--showing no urgency or concern for my car, even after taking more than $21,000 from me.
When the car finally came home, it ran and the brakes functioned--but not as well as they did before Smitty's touched anything. The next morning, I walked into my garage to a strong smell of fuel. The shutoff valve, part of the original issue and a simple fix, was still leaking gas all over the floor. When I called Smitty's, they offered only excuses and refused to come fix the problem, even though it's a 30-minute job. I also discovered the rear transmission seal had been left loose and leaking.
I am completely disappointed and no longer feel confident driving my car--let alone taking it to a show.
Once you sign Smitty's contract, you have no recourse: you pay what they demand and take your car as-is.
I'm out $21,000, and Smitty's Classics got to enjoy their trip to Barrett-Jackson. I truly hope this review helps someone avoid the same mistake. read more