Another Build Thread - My '32

[J. Robinson]

Roger - I looked at the link you sent for the HAMB. The newest post was in 2010. I wonder how their stuff is doing now (quality wise)? Anyway, I have looked online at bodies from TRC in Lula, Georgia. The website says they are using the original refurbished molds from Downs. I don't know if that's good or bad. I haven't put any money down anywhere yet, so I'm still researching. Whatever I learn I'll post it here...

[rspears]

Roger - I looked at the link you sent for the HAMB. The newest post was in 2010. I wonder how their stuff is doing now (quality wise)? Anyway, I have looked online at bodies from TRC in Lula, Georgia. The website says they are using the original refurbished molds from Downs. I don't know if that's good or bad. I haven't put any money down anywhere yet, so I'm still researching. Whatever I learn I'll post it here...

Jim - Yeah, that's why I said you need to look at the past 10 years. It looked like in 2008 "Legendary" defaulted on the note held by the Downs family, and Jamie Downs (the son - noting Shine's comment here) took them to court and was awarded all of the hardware - mainly the molds, but also other tools of the trade that had been sold by Dad. The next year Legendary declared bankruptcy to get away from their remaining debt load.
I agree with Uncle Bob, I'd make a trip to visit before plunking down $8K or more for a body, especially today. When was looking, I first focused on N&N because of the "Budget Build" article in the old Street Rod Builder magazine spanning two or three issues over a six month period, where they stated that they found N&N to be the best value they had found on a roller package. Then I talked to Duane several times, met him at the NSRA Oklahoma City event and we walked around with him pointing out cars that were his bodies, and also pointing out what others did differently, and why he did what he did. I developed a strong trust bond with him, and felt secure buying from him.
Sorry to say that I believe Uncle Bob's scenario is on target. The market segment is changing quickly, and looking out for yourself is a must.