Recommend a shop in N County San Diego?

I have a 1969 Intermeccanica Italia with suspension and bodywork needs and I would be very grateful for recommendations on a capable shop or individual in north county San Diego that can help me. The Italia is a hand-made coachbuilt two-seat convertible with the body made in Italy welded to a sturdy box frame with 351w or 351c and typically a four-speed top loader. The bodies are prone to rust and the nose is very vulnerable and often bruised in even the most minor collisions.

Mine is not so bad with rust but a rear shock mount rusted out and the shock punched through. I took the body down to bare metal and discovered some old rust repairs that should be redone and some new cancer that needs to be addressed. Plus, there's the matter of the delicate nose that was smooshed in and repaired poorly (then covered in heavy mud).

These cars also suffer from dicey front suspension, despite the near perfect 50-50 weight balance - victims of their Italian parts bin construction (specifically, Fiat truck parts). Many owners graft in a Mustang II IFS kit, such as Heidts. I would like to do the same or take it up a notch, if there is a better solution. Also, want to upgrade brakes on all four corners.

Does anyone have any experience with "Rodder's Coice" in Santee? Can anyone recommend shops mor individuals in North County San Diego for either or both the suspension and bodywork? Many thanks in advance.

 

Not sure how to add more than one photo but here's one of the nose

 

And the rear quarter/fender

 

Side view

 

Try hot rods and custom stuff in Escondido.


Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad

 

Yeah Hot Rods and Custom Stuff. I toured their shop and spoke to Randy about a car he had for sale a few years back. Seem like honest people who do top notch work.

 

Did you ever find a shop to do your Italia?

 

x3 Randy and the gang

 

Thanks for the recommendations. I spoke with Hod Rods 'n Custom Stuff earlier this year. Impressive shop. Still want to check around and hear from folks who have worked with them or other shops in the area that are worth checking out. I also touched base with Dave Chappelle but he seemed pretty busy and never got back to me. Any other places I should look at?

 

I think it might be worth checking with this guy:
JERRY GOULETTE AUTO RESTORATION 619-339 0177 Olde Hwy 80, El Cajon, CA 92021....I don't have personal experience but have seen a lot of his work.

I have a OT 67 Intermeccanica Omega and know what you mean about the Italian sheet metal. I've owned since 1978 but haven't gotten around to playing with it. I'd be interested in your choice and let me know if you might have other questions