I have owned a restoration shop for the last 30 plus years so I hope this advice carries some weight. The key word is references, references, references. Don't just go by the list the shop provides, ask for a list of ALL the jobs for the last 5 years because they're going to give you just the satisfied customers, not any unhappy ones. If they hesitate--run. Do some sleuthing, ask about them from nearby parts stores and paint supply firms. DO NOT GIVE THEM UPFRONT MONEY, if they're on such a tight budget they can't wait till a portion is done to collect--run. Since you will be strangers you can create an escrow account to prove the money is there and if that's not good with them--run. Insist on a job sheet with hours and tasks done along with photos. Furnish three or four disposible cameras when you bring in the truck so there's no excuse not to document. Study his character, listen as to whether what the truck needs is discussed more than the topic of money. Does he seem to love old cars(trucks), or is it just income. We have found, in the last few truck restos that it might take 20 to 22K to have it done RIGHT. This means RESTORING, not REFURBISHING. Restoration is not only the usual clean, straighten, sand, paint, glass and rubber but the replacing of every part that moves or can wear right down to the bearings in the trans and rearend to the bushings in the parking brake cross shaft. In other words it should be indistinguishible from brand new. Hope this "War and Peace" length tip helps and remember the most likable types are the ones that are most successful at conning, protect yourself and don't feel bad about holding the line.
