What's with auto body people? . . . .

I've worked in bodyshops and in restoration shops..they are two different animals. Bodyshops work on a get em in, get em out theory...the high volume production shop. That is the complete opposite of a restoration shop, where you drop your car off, and 18 months later pick up a better than new 40 year old musclecar. Try a shop that specializes in restorations...or a frame shop, you might have better luck.