A 25-year dream came true
for me when I became the owner of a 1968 Corvette convertible. With the
idea that I would restore to operation those items which through either
neglect or age had caused to cease to function, I began on a trek which
ultimately led to frustration. Many things can be wrong with a vehicle
which was , at the time, 35 years old. The more I fixed, the more I
found which needed attention. I work a full-time job and soon
realized that I had bitten off more than I could digest in trying to
make the time and lacking the expertise necessary for the caliber of
work the car needed. A shade-tree mechanic for years, I realized that a
specialized Corvette restoration facility would be required in order to
be assured of the level of competency necessary for such work. After an
extended and until that time depressing search for a suitable,
reputable, and trustworthy facility for the vehicle, I found Walden and
Younger Corvette Restoration and Sales on the internet (http://www.waldensvettes.com)
. Several items piqued my interest immediately: they had photos on their
website which indicated the type of work they do, they were nearby (
which was important to me so that I could visit them and the car during
the work), and they specialize in Corvettes exclusively. It was apparent
to me that this was a one-stop shop for all my needs. But what are they
like? How do they act? Are they trustworthy? Are they craftsmen? Will
they be fair to me? After all, not everyone with a Corvette has gobs of
money to squander.
I sent an email via their
website and detailed some of the items which I knew needed attention,
and asked would they consider meeting me to discuss possibilities. I
anxiously awaited the reply, thinking that there was the possibility of
being told, in effect, " Go away, boy... you bother me." A
pessimist is seldom disappointed.
After meeting Adrian and Mr.
Walden, Charles and Mr. Younger, I was at the very least impressed with
them. First, by having all the players present during the initial
meeting. Second, by making me feel at ease and comfortable. One doesn't
converse very long with any of these folks without getting the distinct
impression and certain assurance that they are all first-rate
individuals. They were cordial and courteous, and spoke with the
unmistakable air of confidence, competence, and honesty which was
indicative to me of being the real thing, and not a pretense. It was
during this meeting that I decided that they were my Holy Grail, an that
I wished to do business if they would have me.
I was kept informed all along
of work in progress, and was consulted on any questionable items and
expenses. My car was placed on their website with photos showing the
various phases of the operation. I was never made to feel less because
this car did not have redeeming qualities other than being a Corvette.
It wasn't "all original," nor was it a "one-owner,"
nor was it a "numbers-matching" vehicle. It is, however
special to me , as are all Corvettes to their owners. Walden and
Younger, know this, and it's a tribute to their business. After
extensive work and time and energy expended by Walden and Younger, and
several on-site visits along the way, I picked up the fresh vehicle,
complete with a new convertible top, a power-steering conversion, as
well as new suspension, braking system, vacuum system, as well as many
other fixes and restorations. My enthusiasm bordered on giddiness, and
I'm normally rather reserved.
Walden and Younger's
work, ethics, competency, craftsmanship, and trustworthiness are all
above reproach. I an a very satisfied customer and can heartily
recommend them without reservation. Having seen in person their
facilities and capabilities, as well as having been fortunate to get to
know them, they are in my highest regard. You can trust them with your
Corvette. With my thanks and appreciation to Adrian, Mr. Walden,
Charles, and Mr. Younger; you all did a great piece of work!
Sincerely,
Jerry Ferguson
Rising Fawn, Ga. 30738
bigtwk@hughes.net
02 May 2005
