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The following was posted to the British
Car Forum (BCF) the day after I picked up the engine:
 "I
just got up to speed this morning...having not slept much the last two
nights (Thursday...anticipation, Friday...euphoria).
The engine, as you can see, exemplifies Hap's work well...it is exactly
what I expected. That's just the outside though. The earlier photos and
descriptions as well as an on-site visits previously attest to the build
quality. I am most pleased.
Hap's an artist, on the internals as well as the presentation. And, best
of all, no surprises...challenges along the way...yes, but unanticipated
costs, attitudes, or other hindrances...no!
I consider Hap a friend, that's a good outcome of any financial
transaction. We celebrated with lunch and a SPIRITED drive over Paris
Mtn. Whew...when Hap gets behind the wheel of his BGT you better hold
on. I commented that he seemed comfortable hitting 6000 out of first,
second, and occasionally third...on the next series of curves he showed
me 7000. I've also never seen the outskirts of Greenville, on the way
back to his shop, at 90 MPH...but I did yesterday...when I had my eyes
open 
All in all, a great experience. Thanks, Hap."
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Hap took on two builds
back to back; the first was closer to stock and will be right at home in
Tunebug, a 1959 Bugeye Sprite belonging to Drew in Utah. Right after Hap
and I agreed on my build I posted the announcement to the BCF. Drew sent
me a private message and we, over several communications, discussed the
ins and outs of an engine build. I was pleased when a few weeks later Drew
announced that he would also be the owner of a new engine by Hap.
Scheduling permitted Drew's engine to be completed just as mine was starting.
His experience throughout the build was very similar to my own.
A few days after completing my engine, Hap, most graciously posted the
following the the BCF:
"Oh I want to take a moment to talk about Drew and Ray as customers.
These are two great guys; they were both passionate about what they
wanted, great to deal with, and two guys who love these little cars and
this hobby, which always makes my job easier. The thing about this
business is, you start off with customers and end up with friends. I
want let them both to know I am honored for the privilege to built their
engines. Running your own one man business can sometimes be a drag,
yesterday for example I spent all day long doing books and paying bills,
today I need to replace a hot water heater (we'll see if that happens
:)) but projects like Drew and Ray's is what makes doing this worthwhile
and fun. Thanks guys, I hope they run forever for you."
Hap Waldrop
Acme Speed Shop
Greenville, SC
www.acmespeedshop.com
Go to "Build Log" page
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