| Author | Message | ||
| V.Z. (Ama328)
Junior Member Username: Ama328 Post Number: 112 Registered: 11-2002 |
maybe the real question to ask is 'who are the mechanic(s) within a reasonable distance who can do the job you need to a level of expertise you would like, within reasonable price & timeframe limits?'. From there, narrow it down NOT by pricing, but by who runs the fairest, most legit business, has a better than 'good' reputation, *and* has a personality with which you'd like to work. These broad "who's the best" questions are pretty much unanswerable because for every specific task to do, there's probably someone who's a bit quicker than others, maybe another who's $5 cheaper, another who's got an open slot in their schedule, etc., etc., ad nauseum. | ||
| rich (Dino2400)
Junior Member Username: Dino2400 Post Number: 216 Registered: 10-2001 |
JRV, you certainly don't need a car salesman above you - what you need is a combination shop-monkey/computer-geek below you in the food chain. Someone to sweep the floor and move cars. Someone who may want to watch and learn, but knows when to stay out of the way and how to anticipate when an extra set of hands may be needed. Someone to do the billing and make the phone calls and the parts orders. Someone to identify which customers are just not going to be worth it (I'm sure you've met the type, though I suppose less so in the Ferrari world) and which are. Someone that will do all the non-art stuff so you can make the cars sing. If you don't already have someone like that, tell me where to send my resume! | ||
| Lawrence Michaels (Lxmichaels1)
Junior Member Username: Lxmichaels1 Post Number: 152 Registered: 2-2001 |
OK, let me dial in on this one. IMHO,... A Class Mechanic in my book is one that can look at NOT only a Ferrari Colombo V12, Lamborghini V8, Offenhauser Indy motor, John Deere Tractor, Sherman Tank, Arial square 4 motorcycle, Lycomming Aero engine, Schwinn Stingray, Wankel Rotories & even Warring 3 speed juice blenders....and just have the Zen & instinct to KNOW what it's all about and what to do about it from restoration to performance mods. To understand Cam timing, combustion chamber design et al. A great mechanic is taught about particulars by the factories or schools on top of a natural instinct to do so, like a great piano player...just have to have an ear for it. I don't think Mozart had a certificate, Michangelo had no certificate, DiVinci & Albert E. did not either. >Larry | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 1410 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>JRV, you would close down your shop in a second if you could get a steady 8-5 job with a dealer. You wouldn't have to worry about billing, overhead, or dealing with the customers first hand. You could concentrate on your art.<< Actually Rob you are almost right and thoughts of getting a real job ;-) do cross my mind from time to rent time. And at times it does seem like leaving the admistrative & billing (paying) duties behind would be like taking a vacation and I really could spend more time doing what I'm best at. But large organizations stiffle free thinking and the ability to solve problems logically. So corporate structure is best for some types of proffesions, but not really well suited for others. Also a good mechanic has people over him generally that have different goals and agendas besides listening to what machines dictacte they need to "really" be done properly for the long haul. Having come from the corporate dealer background prior to opening a shop I'm as aware of the downsides, like stiffling creativity and free thinking, as I am of the upsides, steady employment. The truth is I'm in business by default anyway, I didn't come to Houston from LA to open a shop at all, I came here for a regular job. But what one eventually discovers in this profession is that used car salesmen own 90% of the Shops, by virtue of sales and repair being an apendage, to them a neccesary evil in the vast majority of cases. And to be honest with myself I finally had to decide if I wanted one used car salesman or another controlling my destiny. | ||
| Rob Lay (Rob328gts)
Board Administrator Username: Rob328gts Post Number: 4719 Registered: 12-2000 |
JRV, you would close down your shop in a second if you could get a steady 8-5 job with a dealer. You wouldn't have to worry about billing, overhead, or dealing with the customers first hand. You could concentrate on your art. | ||
| James J. McGee (Dr_ferrari)
Junior Member Username: Dr_ferrari Post Number: 92 Registered: 7-2002 |
I don`t dispute that andrew, In fact that is my point as well. best regards, Jim | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 25 Registered: 10-2002 |
James... I know that. I simply meant that there's no ONE piece of paper that says anybody is an expert Ferrari wrench on all models. Want to see my checkbook for the guys I've sent to FNA "schools"? The main thing they brought back was a list of tools, etc. to buy to fix new models. Is that to say the "schools" are worthless? No. I simply say they do not define what makes a good wrench.. and I DEFY any one to argue that!! Pax vobiscum!!!!!!! | ||
| James J. McGee (Dr_ferrari)
Junior Member Username: Dr_ferrari Post Number: 91 Registered: 7-2002 |
Andrew, Just to let you know, there is a list of Ferrari trained technicians that do have "certificates of course completion" for each. FNA has the list. If you are looking for the technician with the most "Pieces of paper", look no further than here. I have only accomplished that due to the fact that I worked for FNA and the ferrari network for about 15 years and attended all classes offered in that time and also had some special training that other techs were not offered. I Gained a good working knowledge through working with many of the Factory engineers and technicians. I have also been involved in the challenge series since the beginning and along with one of the Factory technical guys, built/modified the first 348 challenge for the USA series I also learned a great deal from the great technicians in the field, for without them I would not have been challenged. Now, does that make me the best Ferrari technician? I would hope not. I believe There is much to be learned by experience and by the experiences of others and I am sure I still can learn more. There are some experiences that I have had that others haven`t and vice versa. Thats why I like this forum, I share what I know and I learn what I haven`t experienced. There are many very talented technicians out there dealer and independent both and unfortunatly there are more that really should not be allowed to be within 200 yards of anything mechanical. There is a real shortage of good dedicated Ferrari technicians mainly because not many want to make the sacrifice of learning all they can and doing the job BEYOND what is expected. there have been many times I have spent more time on a car to make sure it was perfect. I take every ferrari I touch seriously and personally. And there are a few out there that I see feel the same and JRV I place you in that group. I see you have a great knowledge and are on this forum sharing and learning as well. and you were right that Tony site was spot on. I do still believe that Ferrari`s main objective is to provide excellence of service in it`s dealer network if it`s working or not, But of coarse if that gives them more control of the product sales and service I`m sure they won`t complain. And also, I agree JRV that ctk has the best answer. Best regards, Jim NOTE: FNA dosen`t have a 800 number, they haven`t sprung for that one yet.  | ||
| FABS (Caruso348)
New member Username: Caruso348 Post Number: 33 Registered: 5-2002 |
The best mechanic of course, is the one that works on my Ferrari. His name is Dave Helms hailing from Boulder, Colorado. | ||
| Verell Boaen (Verell)
Member Username: Verell Post Number: 700 Registered: 5-2001 |
Andrew, Nope, Just shaking my head. IMHO, the merit in this thread is that it may help someone select a mechanic. On the other hand, I absolutely agree w/JRV's post #1406. Factory info is only worthwhile when you absorb & apply it. I'll take a dedicated self-taught mechanic anyday over an inexperienced 'factory trained' guy with an ego. Vincent, Go for it. I bought my lift a couple of years ago. Makes everything easier. Well, almost everything, talking my wife into letting me cut a 6" square hole for so a lift post could stick up 18" thru the floor of the upstairs walk-in closit wasn't what I'd call easy... It takes a 3x8 major from being a bit of a pita into a fun job. I really appreciated it when I had to change my timing drive bearings last spring. | ||
| BILL CHIUSANO (My355)
Junior Member Username: My355 Post Number: 74 Registered: 3-2003 |
Andy Falbo here in AZ!! Straight from the Ferrari factory in Italy 20+ years.Nice guy too! | ||
| John_Miles (John_miles)
Junior Member Username: John_miles Post Number: 55 Registered: 7-2001 |
It took a few minutes for me to find the page on Tony Palladino's site to which JRV was referring, but the surfing effort was more than worthwhile. The full link, which is definitely in the "not to be missed" category, is : http://www.modena-motors.com/passion_and_the_automotive_techn.htm The only problem with what Tony's written here is that anyone possessing all of those talents is more likely to be driving Ferraris than fixing them. | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 24 Registered: 10-2002 |
Chill guys.... Banzaiboxr's initial question was "I would like to see all the names of Mechanics who have a Ferrari Diploma from the factory. Not interested in self taught!!!!!" The answer to his question is that there is no such list, nor is there a "Ferrari Diploma". You rolling your eyes yet, Verell? When it comes to who's the best Ferrari wrench in town.. the answer is... "Which one can piss farther?" | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 1407 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>How many Factory trained - in Italy- mechanics do you know that are well known and in your book honest and good people.<< Old timers or of the modern era? I'm an old man, and obviosly the ones that I know enough about to respect have "a track record"..."a history"...not just "marketing hype" in my position I call it "A Carreer", not simply a job. Any star can shine for a while, very few can shine for decades. You should probably go to Tony Palidino's web site and read what he says about what it takes to be a mechanic....there's nothing in there about ethnic background or surname.... | ||
| Vincent (Vincent348)
Junior Member Username: Vincent348 Post Number: 203 Registered: 4-2003 |
"who is the best f...... I know it's not me, but I'm thinking of investing in a lift. I know a couple of guys around here who could use on from time to time, and I think I can get one in the garage. I'd like to tackle my major next winter. Beats just looking at the car in the garage, or writing a big fat check. | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 118 Registered: 8-2002 |
JRV , How many Factory trained - in Italy- mechanics do you know that are well known and in your book honest and good people. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 1406 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>>I believe if JRV had the same access, he would take more advantage of it than some of the dealers. << James, I've always respected your advice to others here and respected the fact you're willing to take the time to share with those needing a helping hand. Now as far as access to info, please...Ferrari is not splitting atoms..their systems are not really any different than other sports cars...it's simply moving forward like the rest of the worlds technology...Ferrari has lived in fear of having their secrets divulged from the beggining...they have tried to perpetuate the myths in order for them to maximize "PROFITS"....not because they know something others don't or can't figure out. So please...I've been around far to long and serviced almost every type of Ferrari out of warranty...this is not Magic...it's Science and Mechanical Skill. Shed the fear and walk into the light...the BEST GUYS have a following because they are the best, not because they have better "Marketing Hype" than the dealers. You sound like one of the good dealer Techs, dedicated, good for you, keep up the good work. But don't forget, all BS aside, being a Mechanic is Hard Work, and most guys just can't cut it when the going gets tough, it's hard to balance ones long term reputation against Fridays paycheck for most, and most guys are to short sighted to see and understand that. Perfection is not something one can achieve and count beans at the same time. | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 1405 Registered: 11-2002 |
>> must strongly disagree, I don`t believe you fully understand what Factory trained really means. Factory trained is more than just 3 days in NJ, It is a comittment to excellence of service. << So Pete it's 3 days with a chalk board and pointer...with a Teacher leading the class no less..and a commitment to excellence....WOWWW! and a 1-800 number after that..WOWWW! >>and only with the schooling provided can you properly service the newer ferraris not to mention the test equipment. << and Test Equipment that collects dust while the techs scavenge parts to swap from running cars on the lot....WOWWWW! >>>No disrespect meant JRV And Im sure you are a very accomplished mechanic, but you cannot just discount the advantage of the factory connection only the dealer network has. << Actually my cross town dealer is my best business asset...if it wasn't for thier quality ;-) and acomplished skill, I wouldn't have half the business that needs someone that can "really fix Ferraris", not simply work on them! I'm the guy that comes behind to solve the problems once and for all and fix all the expensive screw-ups...no disrespect..but let's keep it real! | ||
| James J. McGee (Dr_ferrari)
Junior Member Username: Dr_ferrari Post Number: 90 Registered: 7-2002 |
Pete, Not knowing the problem they had, it is possible that they were waiting for parts, that does seem to be a particular problem the factory has had. and with regard to repairs, the information is there, the assistance from FNA to make the repairs is there, what the technician does with that information is up to them, and what sets them apart. I did not say all Ferrari trained techs were the best, only that they have access to the best information. I believe if JRV had the same access, he would take more advantage of it than some of the dealers. It all depends on the technicians level of commitment, dealer or independent. Best regards, Jim | ||
| pete (Pete_peter)
New member Username: Pete_peter Post Number: 26 Registered: 12-2002 |
If the dealers (and their mechanics) are so good, then explain this : http://www.ferrarichat.com/discus/messages/21/229884.html | ||
| James J. McGee (Dr_ferrari)
Junior Member Username: Dr_ferrari Post Number: 88 Registered: 7-2002 |
"And get real with the "US factory trained bs"...3 days in a NJ Class Room is not the "factory" , but is what the Dealers "market" as "factory trained" and what the misinformed and misguided call "factory trained" ! " Jrv, I must strongly disagree, I don`t believe you fully understand what Factory trained really means. Factory trained is more than just 3 days in NJ, It is a comittment to excellence of service. The information provided at the 3 days (By Factory trained technical teachers who have first hand knowledge)is only a start, there is constant information fed to the dealer network through FNA and only with the schooling provided can you properly service the newer ferraris not to mention the test equipment. You did forget to add the rest of davids comment: "By the way, Alberto Pedretti (retired) is flat out the best guy on pre 1972 cars. Electronics dominate todays repairs and service and computer geeks rule!" NOTE: ALberto Pedretti: Ferrari Factory trained and I agree the best!! and as Dave says, geeks rule, and those with the information on the new cars will prevail. If you know how it works, and why it works, You will fix any problem. That has been and always will be my rule with any year Ferrari. No disrespect meant JRV And Im sure you are a very accomplished mechanic, but you cannot just discount the advantage of the factory connection only the dealer network has. Best regards, Jim | ||
| JRV (Jrvall)
Intermediate Member Username: Jrvall Post Number: 1391 Registered: 11-2002 |
>>Most Dealerships only send one technician to the Ferrari of North America technical seminars when a new model is introduced. Then that guy is supposed to teach the others in his dealership. Most dealers are too cheap to send everyone to the school. Sometimes the schools are held in Maranello and that gets expensive. Schools usually only happen when a new model is introduced. If you started when I did there was no FNA or schools. << They didn't even have Dealers when I started working on them..lol. And get real with the "US factory trained bs"...3 days in a NJ Class Room is not the "factory" , but is what the Dealers "market" as "factory trained" and what the misinformed and misguided call "factory trained" ! Best comments on Mechaincs here is by CTK. | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
Member Username: Fred Post Number: 701 Registered: 2-2001 |
Brian Stewart in Indianapolis gets my vote. | ||
| ctk (Ctk)
Junior Member Username: Ctk Post Number: 100 Registered: 7-2001 |
A Great Mechanic? Good basic mechanical knowledge, great diagnostic skills, patient and unhurried. Troubleshooting skills versus swap suspect parts at your cost. Gentle, gentle, gentle on your parts and your car. Assured and honest, to calm you down with faith, hope and charity when you receive your prognosis on your 'sick' beauty and fearing the worst. Someone who loves cars and things mechanical, who is happy and interested in what he does, so that it translates to loving care and a positive attitude when working on yours. That is my great mechanic. Knowing waht is wrong and knowing how to fix it gently, correctly, properly and in one go is my guideline to great mechanics. | ||
| Jason Fraser (Jfraser)
Member Username: Jfraser Post Number: 325 Registered: 3-2001 |
I don't know about the US, but I feel fairly confident in saying Bob Houghton would be the number 1 Ferrari engineer in the UK. I know when Ferrari UK don't get a satisfactory answer from the factory, they usually call him. Bob has had the responsibility for the technical supervision of the British 355/360 Challenge race team since 1995. | ||
| Andy Falsetta (Tuttebenne)
Junior Member Username: Tuttebenne Post Number: 110 Registered: 3-2003 |
He's probably in Italy - in Modena. Are you interested in knowing about the best in a specific geography? Or just "the best"? | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1739 Registered: 7-2001 |
I've seen Norwoods work first hand. Anyone that can customize a car they way they do, has no trouble changing the belts for a 30k. They get my business, and will continue to. We're lucky in Dallas, there a few great Ferrari mechanics here, any one of which I'd take my car to. Are they the best? Who knows. Define best? | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 18 Registered: 10-2002 |
Verell, know what? When you're right - you're right. Sorry for my contribution to sidetracking the thread. DaveE - as far as I know, there's no list of wrenches who have a "Ferrari factory diploma". I'd suggest an email to the administrator of www.owners.ferrari.com - ask if one's available. If you don't belong, I could do it for you, let me know. Also, see David Castelhano's post. | ||
| James Glickenhaus (Napolis)
Intermediate Member Username: Napolis Post Number: 1176 Registered: 10-2002 |
I'd aggree on JRV | ||
| stephen r chong (Ethans_dad)
Junior Member Username: Ethans_dad Post Number: 249 Registered: 3-2002 |
Our very own JRV has an exceptional reputation. He has many years logged on Ferraris and has been a valuable contributor to the FChat owners needs. Dare I bring up the name Eugenio in LA? ; ) Despite many varying opinions, IMHO, he is another very qualified and competent Ferrari technician that the FChat community have known and worked with. PS: Have to agree that Factory Training is nice, but not the only way to go. In fact, if you visit any dealer nowadays, it seems to me some of these fellas are so young, I'm not sure if I want them wrenching on my car! The days of the old artisan Master Technicians from the Factory are over. The new wave of computer diagnostics and real time engine telemetry has arrived. For any of you that attended the last FCA tech session in the Bay area, WOW was that an eye opener in modern Ferrari service protocol! Big brother is watching how you drive your cars... | ||
| Verell Boaen (Verell)
Member Username: Verell Post Number: 691 Registered: 5-2001 |
DavE, Keeping a F*chat thread on it's original track is in the same category as herding cats. (chuckle). | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 115 Registered: 8-2002 |
I just don't get it!!! I spelled out my ORIGINAL Question and shouldn't have to argue!Ok never the hell mind. ;| | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 16 Registered: 10-2002 |
James Glickenhaus..... you have a Duesie???? Could I borrow a few hundred thou? My broker, Seamus Goldfarb, gave me a hot tip about Enron... I'd split with you. | ||
| F-J'87EuroTR (Ferrarijoe)
Member Username: Ferrarijoe Post Number: 308 Registered: 5-2001 |
Carlo Durante of Alfa of Tacoma. Enough said! | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 15 Registered: 10-2002 |
My point about Bob Norwood (I sure hope he's reading these things - I need a kickback!!) is that he'd be willing to stick a rocket up a Texas armadillo's ass and take it to Boneville. He just likes making stuff go FASTER.... including Ferraris!! He's never met Enzo... though I have... Norwood's never been to Enzo's "school", and ok, I haven't either... but I think Enzo would approve of Bob's approach anyway. Ok? Anybody remember Peter Ustinov's "Grand Prix du Rock"? Replying to a question about his Ferrari not having brakes, Enzo indignantly replies... "ANYbody can make a car go slow.. but only I can make a car go FAST!!" | ||
| James Glickenhaus (Napolis)
Intermediate Member Username: Napolis Post Number: 1170 Registered: 10-2002 |
Andrew I agree with that. Even though Sal wasn't trained at the Duesenberg factory he's doing a great job restoring mine. I don't know Bob Norwood's work and I take your word it's excellent but I do know Michelleto's and it is a thing of beauty, art, and race winning speed. There are many great mechanics. The fastest 512M wasn't built by Ferrari it was built by Donohue/Pensky. It's motor was built by Traco. It was recently dispayed at Cavallino. Sunoco Blue same color as my Lola... Best Jim | ||
| Bill Steele (Glassman)
Junior Member Username: Glassman Post Number: 206 Registered: 4-2002 |
So shouldn't the question be , who is the best Ferrari mechanic? | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 14 Registered: 10-2002 |
Ok... this is getting silly. My POINT was.. do you want the ••••••• thing fixed? A "Ferrari diploma" isn't necessarily any guarantee. I've seen as much bad and GROSSLY overpriced stuff come out of "Ferrari diploma" hands, as any other! When you get down to it, except for the S or DOHC heads, a Ferrari engine or gearbox isn't really any different from - say - a Chevy. My POINT was that a GOOD mechanic.. is a good mechanic... period. Anybody want to argue that??????? | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 114 Registered: 8-2002 |
Only Girlfriends call me Dear. Ok enough ... I would like to hear any stories you might have about any overpriced service you have had. | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 13 Registered: 10-2002 |
Dear Dave: My point was that not only guys with Ferrari "diplomas" know how to fix Ferraris. I have no problem with "purism"... I had mine rebuilt/restored with 100% genuine Ferrari stuff... cost be damned. So I have no problem with either the "purist" or just plain "competent" sides, ok? It just depends what you are really looking for. Best regards, Andy PS Only my mother called me Andrew... and even so, only if she was REALLY pissed. | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 112 Registered: 8-2002 |
Andrew, I started this thread for Ferrari trained Mechanics! Purists "yes" Is there any other? | ||
| Doug meredith (Dougm)
Member Username: Dougm Post Number: 288 Registered: 2-2001 |
Norwoods did a full engine/trans rebuild on my 512bb for the previous owner. It wasn't cheap, but they did a very good job. The car runs like a top and doesn't have a drop of oil anywhere top or bottom. | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 11 Registered: 10-2002 |
To Dave E - this thread was about the competence of Ferrari mechanics, not purists. As far as I know, Norwood may well have strapped a pair of Daytona engines under the wings of a robin (www.bobnorwood.com). My point was.. he knows how to make Ferrais go faster than ANYbody.. and that includes Michelotto!! To SeanF - Are you SURE you want to cry? | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 111 Registered: 8-2002 |
David, Thanks for that information . Very helpful! | ||
| Paul Bianco (Paulie_b)
Junior Member Username: Paulie_b Post Number: 52 Registered: 1-2003 |
David, are you a "computer geek"? Or basically the best all around Ferrari guy to know? Your receptionist is pretty hot too! To everyone else out there, its worth the trip to stop by his shop and see his works in progress....as well as Robbie! | ||
| David M. Castelhano (Servizioman)
New member Username: Servizioman Post Number: 6 Registered: 4-2003 |
Most Dealerships only send one technician to the Ferrari of North America technical seminars when a new model is introduced. Then that guy is supposed to teach the others in his dealership. Most dealers are too cheap to send everyone to the school. Sometimes the schools are held in Maranello and that gets expensive. Schools usually only happen when a new model is introduced. If you started when I did there was no FNA or schools. By the way, Alberto Pedretti (retired) is flat out the best guy on pre 1972 cars. Electronics dominate todays repairs and service and computer geeks rule! | ||
| Paul Bianco (Paulie_b)
New member Username: Paulie_b Post Number: 50 Registered: 1-2003 |
If anyone lives in South Florida or would want to send their vehicle from out of state, they can contact David Castelhano at Servizio in Jupiter, FL. Great credentials and runs an honest repair shop. Also does track support for Ferrari Club events throughtout the state and also this year at Lime Rock. Call 561-747-3311 or [email protected] | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 110 Registered: 8-2002 |
This Bob Norwood guy. Didn't he have a Ferrari 308 Funny car? Sounds like a Hot Rod - Rice me up a wing Type mechanic. Sorry not acceptible - A discrace to Mr. Enzo . | ||
| Sean F (Agracer)
Junior Member Username: Agracer Post Number: 111 Registered: 2-2003 |
"ask me about my $3k spark plug wire sometime!" OK, I'm asking, I gotta here this! e-mail if you'd rather not post [email protected] | ||
| Andrew A. Illes (Andyilles)
New member Username: Andyilles Post Number: 9 Registered: 10-2002 |
Dear Dave: To disprove your theory about only a factory "diploma" sufficing, look no further than Bob Norwood of Dallas. James, I agree about Bob Wallace (tho he was Lambo). Although it's equally true that there are tons of inept supposed Ferrari "experts" (ask me about my $3k spark plug wire sometime!!), the fact is, there are a LOT of fantastic Ferrari wrenches around, factory trained or not. | ||
| Gary Shaw (308930g)
New member Username: 308930g Post Number: 18 Registered: 4-2003 |
Bob Wallace worked on the 308 GTS that I bought in Jan/03. He had worked on it for nearly 25 years, for the previous owner. He changed the cams, pistons, etc to higher performance, factory racing components. Unbelievable! I have all the receipts that the previous owner had. The previous owner had nothing but great things to say about Bob. Too bad he only rebuilds engines now. | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 94 Registered: 10-2001 |
Luciano Sanzogni in Sarasota Florida was a ferrari F1 mechanic in the 70's, hired by Enzo himself. He was factory trained and worked on the development of the 246 Dino and some of the other designs. He still repairs cavallinos with the love and respect the cars deserve. | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 332 Registered: 10-2002 |
Ferrari of Central Florida has a short italian guy, supposedly straight from the factory in the old days... Met him once, did some work before I brought the car out to New Mexico. | ||
| Dan (Bobafett)
Member Username: Bobafett Post Number: 502 Registered: 9-2002 |
I've heard good things about Tony Palladino... --Dan | ||
| James Glickenhaus (Napolis)
Intermediate Member Username: Napolis Post Number: 1157 Registered: 10-2002 |
So far as I know there is only one still working today who worked directly with Mr. Ferrari, my friend Alberto Pedretti. Alberto and Bob Wallace another gentleman who knows a thing or two recently rebuilt my P4 motor. Coco Chinetti told me his dad thought Alberto was the greatest Ferrari Mechanic there ever was. IMHO another friend Sal Barone at WWOC is very special as well. | ||
| Verell Boaen (Verell)
Member Username: Verell Post Number: 680 Registered: 5-2001 |
Ric's not factory trained, but he's damn good. I believe our own Dr_Ferrari is a Ferrari trained master mechanic. He doesn't say a lot, but when he does it's spot on. | ||
| Taek-Ho Kwon (Stickanddice)
Member Username: Stickanddice Post Number: 323 Registered: 11-2002 |
I've heard excellent stuff about Patrick Otis in Berkeley, CA. | ||
| Mitchell Le (Yelcab1)
Member Username: Yelcab1 Post Number: 528 Registered: 11-2001 |
My money is on Ric Rainbolt. | ||
| DaveE (Banzaiboxr)
Junior Member Username: Banzaiboxr Post Number: 109 Registered: 8-2002 |
I would like to see all the names of Mechanics who have a Ferrari Diploma from the factory. Not interested in self taught!!!!! |