Mark,
Did you get your car back? Post some before and after pics.

 

No pics yet. No car yet. They're running a few days behind. I guess there were some issues with their oven and wanted to bake a few other body parts before doing mine.

I'm anxious enough, don't worry.

 

On a strong recommendation from Loren (LJH996TT), I took it to Knopf. At only 15 miles away, it was the most convenient. The fellow doing the metal work, aside from being friendly and answering every question in more detail than I needed, has 30+ years experience.

 

Mark,
I stopped at Knopf to check on your car this afternoon. The new fender and refinished panels are all spot on color and finish. The refinished wheels look like new.

I know they are a few days behind a/c of oven problems last week, but my suggestion would be to go for perfection ahead of a rush schedule. They are well aware this is a "high profile" job and I think you will be quite pleased with the result.

From what we saw on 9/28, I think you are coming out great!(And you deserve it!)

Best-
Loren

 

Talk about personalized attention!!

 

Isn't that what the fellowship on this forum is all about?!!!

And I think KPV is probably our role model the way he provides counsel and info to virtually everyone who needs it.

Just trying to do my part...

Loren

 

Blush.

But thanks. I just try to help.

Loren,
Does Knopf strictly deal with factory replacement bodywork? Do they involve themselves with aftermarket bodywork modifications? Are they capable in that area?
How is the shoulder doing?

 

Actually, Knopf is in the midst of transformation. They have had a Porsche franchise for many years, but primarily sold Pontiac, Audi, M-B and Isuzu marques. They have sold their Pontiac and Isuzu franchises and will focus on Audi, Porsche and M-B, including building new dedicated stores for each (ready Spring '04). The Porsche Service advisor is Erik Tanzer, who is an expert with time in Germany and NY/NJ Porsche dealerships. The Porsche sales leader is Jim Sangiorgio, from LI. I am encouraging Knopf to do more accessory/aftermarket work and that may come next year.

Right now, the leader in the Tequipment/aftermarket area IMO is Brandywine Porsche. The Parts Manager, Justin Lane, is the best I have seen; knowledgeable, responsive and willing to meet any competitive price. I deal actively with both Knopf and Brandywine and would recommend them highly to our members.

My shoulder is doing amazing well. Saw the surgeon today and he says I may be a poster boy for recovery. I keep on my PT 3x per day, which is the key to a successful procedure. Thanx for asking.

Loren

 

L,
Great to hear you are recovering nicely. Do I hear TOD attendance in the future??
Regarding Knopf, my question was specifically pertaining to bodywork. By your description, it sounds like they are a dealer who also do bodywork??? Is the bodywork done in house?
I would like to know if they do aftermarket bodypart installation and painting, like what was done with my Gemballa stuff already.
K

 

I'll be there for TOD II! Re Knopf, all bodywork is done in house by an expert team. They would probably consider aftermarket work, but you would need to discuss specifics with them. I have been telling them that there is a significant opportunity if they more actively pursue the true enthusiast market. I think they will likely move in this direction when their new stores are built in '04.

Knopf: 800.404.6556
Brandywine: 877.666.2884

 

Wow, Loren. Incredible, what else can I say. You have been helpful beyond realism. You're setting a high standard for the rest of us to follow.

Ken also deserves an honorable mention here as do the others who have suggested shops to me (hscttx50, 03 C4S).

Glad to hear your recovery is ahead of expectations. Rotator cuffs are delicate (learned that at 28), but PT is key.

As anxious as I am to get the car back, I will not rush nor pester Knopf. As long as delays are sensible, they can always have extra time if it means doing a good job.

Ken, if you visit Knopf, give me a holler.

If I don't have a chance to reciprocate the favors directly, I promise I'll take the opportunity to help some others the same way.

 

Mark,
Wht is Knopf's address?

 

Knopf's address:
Knopf Automotive
3401 Lehigh Street
Allentown, PA 18103
Located approx 1 mile S of I-78 Lehigh Street Exit

I would be happy to make intros for anyone. I have purchased many cars there and know everyone.

Loren

 

Guess I've been beaten to the punch.

 

She's back!! Knopf did an incredible job. Paint match so good that I can't even tell where they did the blending (yet?), new fender aligns perfectly, and the wheels look superb. There are 2 very very minor imperfections where I can tell work was done. 1 is out of sight, and the other is subtle enough that it probably wouldn't be noticed unless it was pointed out.

Interestingly, when I was given the invoice, it was more than $2500 less than the estimate. They were quite appreciative that I pointed out the error.

I'll take pictures after she's cleaned up and post later.

...And again a "Thanks" to Loren whose recommendation was as good as the work that Knopf did.