Re: Brutus back home, I am P.O.ed

Well Steve, I'm glad you've got Brutus back home under your own roof. But from our conversation it seems to me that $3200 is still way more than that guy deserved. Looks like there is another small claims court date in your future. He at least should owe you for the cost of repairing the damage. It's still a net loss for you but at least it will be some of your money out of his pocket. Sure sorry this happened. However living in a small community like you do this will do more damage to his reputation than your pocketbook.

On a similar note, I've decided that I am going to see my machinist after the holiday, pay him for his time and pickup my engine unless he agrees to get it done within a couple days. He's had months to measure those pistons and check the valves on the affected cylinder. It's probably work he could do in an afternoon. So enough is enough.

Paul L.

On Sunday, May 25, 2014 9:53:07 PM UTC-5, MO wrote:

I have been waiting to tell you all, the good news that my 64 Dodge project is painted. It has been for about a month. BUT, something has happened to my former friend-painter, and he has really ripped me off. As per our agreement ( not in writing) I was expecting to have a final bill of about $1000. But the bill was for $5,200 ! and he would NOT negotiate. I had to take him to small claims court to settle it. The judge ruled that I pay $3,200 . The painter was mad because he didn't get the total of his bill and would not give me back my car- even tho I had a bank money order for the $3,200. I had to get the Sheriff to go with me to enforce the judges ruling. I loaded up my car and there was extensive damage to the new paint in several ares. I asked the Sheriff new young deputy what to do about it, and he said it would have to be settled in a civil suite. I asked to get the paint and materials that I had paid for, and the painter said he threw it away when I told him I wasn't paying that bill. This painter must think I won't do anything because I am a "nice guy" , but he never has seen me mad!!. This sure has taken the fun out of the Brutus build.
Moral of the story, never make an agreement - even with a friend- unless it is in writing. When money is involved a friend can become your worst enemy........................................MO