I just inherited a 1986 El Camino with the 305 that is in overall good condition. However, some things need to be upgraded such as the suspension and brakes. Have any of you done business with a quality repair shop that knows the El Camino and what upgrades will benefit it. I've searched the forums and had trouble finding one. I just want a shop that can recommend upgrades to me and then get it done. Thanks.

Quality repair shop in Rhode Island? You're kidding, right?

I haven't found one, ever. Been in this State 20 years.

Closest I've come to getting a "fair" deal on repairs has been the "ex-Midas" shop across from Benney's in East Greenwich on Rt 1, just south of entrance to Goddard park. I've heard good things about Johnnie's Getty" in Middletown on West main road, but seldom use them.

Both of these places do mostly stock work. Doubtful they'd be able to offer you the kind of specialized expertise you're seeking.

May I suggest going to several of the local "cruise nights" and asking around in those circles? This group cares much more than the average driver and is very discriminating. If you're looking for cruise night locations, check out www.cruisinbruce.com as a starting place.

Good luck.

I'm taking it to Ocean State Performance in North Kingstown and they are going to look at it and tell me what is needed. I have a list of part already in mind but they said they would give their recommendations. Can't hurt as it's free and they are also going to slap on a new set of tires.

May I suggest going to several of the local "cruise nights" and asking around in those circles? This group cares much more than the average driver and is very discriminating.

Good point Mike. Hey Marc, why don't you bring your Elco to the RICOA car show next Sunday? Lots of Elco's and only Chevy's.....you'll find what your looking for.

Thanks for the link. I would love to be there but next weekend is booked. I'll definitely keep an out out for other events and look forward to attending in the future.

Might be too late, but...

I've been dealing with South County Motors for years. I give them the nasty jobs I don't want to do. They're a former Saab dealership that has been doing more performance and mechanical work lately on classics. Nice part is that they're easy to talk to and will listen to you. See Bob or George.

Find them here, SC Motors (http://www.southcountymotors.com/).

Rich