C Hopkins AMD Installation Center Reviews

[GBMracing]

Hello Everyone,

I'm searching for a good company/person to do some sheet metal work on my 1970 Barracuda Convertible.  I already have the panels (1 piece trunk, dropoffs, 1/4's). It will be a while before I can really dive into the build.  So I'm considering the C. Hopkins AMD Installation Center in Cleveland, GA to get some of the big work done.  (Later, I may do the main floor and cowl on my own).

Thus far, I've been pleased with the professionalism and quick replies to my questions.  Has anyone had work done there, and what was the experience for you?  Any pictures, compliments, complaints, etc?  Any and all reviews would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!

Matt

[ragtopdodge]

Definitely ask for references.

I wouldn't have them do any work if they never done major sheet metal repair on Mopars.  I'm assuming they have if they're an AMD Install Center???

[GBMracing]

From the research I've done, it sounds like Craig Hopkins is pretty well established in the automotive panel replacement business.  From what little I've seen on the website (linked to AMD's site) the work looks to be high quality.  The "Installation Center" is AMD's recommended install location - but it sounds like they've started doing Mopars more recently.  I certainly agree - I'm hoping to see some of their Mopar work soon, and I'll have to ask about some references - thanks.

[ragtopdodge]

Definitely ask how they are going to put on the quarters.  I'm assuming you want full quarters cut down for 'verts.

Also, curious if they can mimic the factory spot welds on the quarter/door jamb area.

[71gogreen]

Hi GBMRacing,my project is similar to yours.I have a 71 challenger convert. I have checked into a little of AMD,S metal shop. If I would go there make sure Craig does the work or verify who,s next in line doing the work.Also check out Roger gibsons web site.They are definitely into Mopars.Please let me know what you have decided.thanks,frank

[chadb]

just my two cents worth, I have met Craig at a few of the swap meets, Carlisle and the nats. and he has with him a rolling road show of their work and amd's panels, espically a 70 cuda that they built with all their panels. They are all very professional and show quality workmanship with dead on spot welds that mimic factory methods. I would not hesitate to use them. Also you can check them out on past episodes of chop cut rebuild on speed. Last year they totally rebuilt Shafi Keisler's hemi 69 charger. They definately know their mopars!  Chad

[GBMracing]

For those who have weighed in, I appreciate it.  Just trying to do my research beforehand - so far, everything looks pretty good.  If I can get some of the difficult metal work done, it will help out.  The project is moving along very slow...but steady.  Thanks!

[E-Body Products]

You will have no issues with the AMD center.

[GBMracing]

UPDATE:  The car is at the AMD Installation Center now.

[FY1443433]

 

[GBMracing]

My car has returned from the shop. 

If you're considering having your car done at this shop, you'll want to contact me directly and I can fill you in on some things.

 

[71gogreen]

Well are you happy with the work? IS it top quality or were there issues not correct? Thank you,Frank 

[GBMracing]

My recommendation to anyone getting work done at ANY shop - be sure to be very clear about what is being done, and not being done on your project.  If the shop is going to exceed the work order agreement (and pricing), make sure you understand their policy on overages.  I had the trunk floor and drop offs, quarters (previously converted to convertible), main floor, firewall and cowl replaced.  After the car was loaded, we took pictures and shook hands.  Then when I was ready to settle my bill, I was told by this particular shop that they do not notify the customer of a price change because that's not their concern.  "Their customers" just automatically understand that restorations are going to cost at least 10% more than expected.  However, the project went 23% over budget without a single notification.  For some, that cost might not be too much, but for me, it was a surprise.  I'm a young guy, trying to do a nice car within a certain budget.  The job went from about 7.5K to almost 10K.  I wasn't notified of the "new cost" until the date of pickup.  I was not even given the option of authorizing/cancelling the additional work - it was never discussed.  The people seem nice and polite enough, but in terms of customer service and professionalism, it was pure disappointment.  The communication was poor at best.  As far as the quality of work - it's ok.  I was mostly satisfied with the quality - probably 75-85%.  It probably would have been better if Craig was doing more of the work.  I will just say, the metal work on the car is far from complete.  For the price and "level of quality" I assumed some of the panels would be aligned and fit better.  I'm just glad it's all over with - and the car is home safe again.  It's going to be hard to trust anyone to work on my Mopar again.  In summary, due mostly to the price increase, I wish I had been more patient and just done the work myself.  On the flip side, like many places, if you have a larger budget...I'm sure you can get to that "next level" of quality.  Good luck and best wishes to those in search for a shop.

[71gogreen]

I wonder why the shop didn,t  notify you of the add on cost? 25% is a big difference ,In my buisness I would never proceed with the extra cost-work without an approval.

[ChallengerHK]

I wonder why the shop didn,t  notify you of the add on cost? 25% is a big difference ,In my buisness I would never proceed with the extra cost-work without an approval.

I've had that happen many times, and it's one of the reasons I'm skittish about dealing people and businesses in this hobby. One guy more than doubled his quoted price when I showed up to get the car, after I got a (verbal) commitment to call me with any potential price increases.