Need Restoration Shop fro 55 Eldo

[Bill Podany #19567]

Unfortunately my prize winning 100 point 55 Eldorado today caught fire in the engine compartment and it is badly damaged.  I am a member of the CLC and AACA, and this car holds a senior first prize badge in both clubs.  I reside in Knoxville, Tennessee.  It is my desire to have it restored to its concours condition; I purchased the car six years ago fully restored.  I would greatly appreciate it if CLC members would please forward restoration shop ideas for me to pursue.  Authenticity and high quality of work is my primary concern, cost is secondary.

Bill Podany
CLC #19567
bpodany@charter.net

[Mike Josephic CLC #3877]

Unfortunately my prize winning 100 point 55 Eldorado today caught fire in the engine compartment and it is badly damaged.  I am a member of the CLC and AACA, and this car holds a senior first prize badge in both clubs.  I reside in Knoxville, Tennessee.  It is my desire to have it restored to its concours condition; I purchased the car six years ago fully restored.  I would greatly appreciate it if CLC members would please forward restoration shop ideas for me to pursue.  Authenticity and high quality of work is my primary concern, cost is secondary.

Bill Podany
CLC #19567
bpodany@charter.net

Bill:

My advice is to call Harbor Auto Restoration in Rockledge, FL.  The owner is Frank Tetro.
He did my 1955 Eldorado and an award winning 1956 Eldo -- both of which will be in
Savannah.  His number is (321) 633-3227 or E-Mail at harbor@harbor-auto.com

Frank will be at the Grand National in Savannah and I'll be happy to introduce you.

Mike

[John Fotakis #23436]

Hi Bill. Just bringing the thread to the top. Thought others might also be interested in what caused the fire in such a meticulously kept car. Might be something we can all learn from. Good luck in the restoration, John.

[Bill Podany #19567]

Hi Bill. Just bringing the thread to the top. Thought others might also be interested in what caused the fire in such a meticulously kept car. Might be something we can all learn from. Good luck in the restoration, John.

John, thanks for the help.  Actually I have received few replies which is suprising.  If you are in Savannah, I will be showing a 41 Cadillac 60 Special in siver/champaign exterior.

[Bill Podany #19567]

To update CLC Members regarding the dreadful fire on my 55 Eldorado, and former Best of Show and 100 point car from AACA, and CLC.  I have engaged Harbor Auto Restoration in Rockledge, Florida to restore the car.  Mike Josephic advised me regarding which shop to select.  In Savannah, I met with owner, Frank Tetro and after seeing the stunning completion of Josephic's 55 Eldorado which took best of show, I was convinced that the Harbor organization was top notch.  I appreciate the input that I received from many club members on and off of this website.

In Savannah, my 41 60 Special (the champagne colored one) took a first prize in its class in the Senior Division.  This was a great event, and we should all be grateful for the many members of our club who volunteered their time and service for the benefit of so many.  My special appreciation to Jack McClow who personally helped me with some special needs.

Bill Podany #19567
Knoxville, TN

[Joe Manna]

It's quite aways for you but there is a fellow in nj by the name of Steve Babinsky.Steve has restored numerous classics that have been shown at Concour's shows all over the country.I dont have his phone # in front of me right now .But will post it tomorrow.

[Bill Podany #19567]

Joemanna,

Thanks for your interest; however I have sent the Eldorado to Harbor Auto Restoration in Florida.  After much research and networking with CLC officials/members I felt their quality work and reputation was top notch.  They also presented a 55 Eldo at the Savannah GN just after its restoration, and it was stunningly done, and took best of show.

Bill Podany
Knoxville, TN

[Chris Arneson]

Bill,

As a '55 Eldorado fanatic, I was horrified to read about your loss.  I hope you get the car back in better condition than before the accident.  But it seems you may be limited to "as good as" given it was a 100 point car already.

We met at the '06 GN in the swap-meet.  I too have a '55 Eldorado and working on a frame off restoration. 

If you have parts needs during your restoration let me know, I have some extras.

BTW:  Do you know what caused the fire or have pictures to share?  I have a personal interest you know...

Good luck on the project.

Regards.

C.