The owner of the car refuses to deal with Ferrari of Denver. Who is a reputable inspector in the area? If I can't find one, I'll buy a ticket to send James from Norwood's out there.
Dave Helms is in Colorado. I am not sure how far he is from Denver. He is GOOD! I am curious as why the current owner refuses FoD? Is it a prior bd experience or is it something he is trying to hide? Did the owner tell you the reason.
Dave is only 30 miles out of Denver - so should be an easy choice for you. He has a fantastic reputation on fchat. I would highly recommend him. Link to his company website: http://www.****************.com/about.html
Dave is more knowledgeable anyway but he does not do a great many PPI's. You really should get in touch with him. The refusal to deal with FOD sets off alarm bells for me. What does he care how much they cost? You are picking up the tab for a PPI. Every time in my experience an owner or dealer refused a particular person or shop to do a PPI something was being hidden. The car and owner maty have history there that he does not want you to know. If Dave does the job tell him about it.
For what its worth, I would certainly take Dave's word over anyone else within 750 miles of Denver. He is by far the most knowledgable and honest Ferrari mechanic around. I will not let anyone else touch my F355 other than Dave. I have not met anyone that has worked with him that has been even the least bit disappointed, he is very busy so hopefully he can help you out.
Dave did my PPI on a 355 I just recently purchased in Denver. Dave is a true professional and very good at what he does. Even living in Santa Fe, NM Dave will be the only one to ever touch my car. They don't come any better than Dave Helms.
For what it is worth, I think I know the car you are talking about (black 355) and did some research on it. It had been thought to have been driven around for quite awhile with cracked manifolds and the concern is definately there as it relates to the condition of the cylinders. Also, the top was torn up, no records exist other than a receipt for some major work done, broker won't let anyone see the car, etc... BE CAREFUL.
