Debt of gratitude to Don Scott!

[TWOOD]

Here's a follow up on the thread I posted in an attempt to make contact with Don Scott relative to my problem with getting title in Ohio.
Short version of problem: State Highway Patrol wanted the "original" receipts that Don would have received for my engine and transmission some 2½ years ago.

After many attempts to contact Don, i.e. phone message, email, and "pass a message to Don" via Terry at GLR and Ed (DV), and whoever might have read my posting,..................I received a phone call from Don asking what was the difficulty.

Bottom line: After searching for the "appropriate and acceptable receipts", he could not locate what I needed. So, he offered to call "Trooper Lorraine Rolf" at the Warren Ohio inspection station.

Here's the text from the email I just received today from Don:

"Tom, I spoke to officer Rolf and I am going to fax a copy of a Ford receipt for a transmission that I purchased. It isn't the correct one for you but she said she could use it. I also explained the problem with a receipt for a core engine block. I buy them from all over and don't always get receipts. Given the age of the engine block and her knowing that I can't get a VIN # from the original car she said things should be ok. I also gave her my phone number so she can call me when you get there if she has any questions.
Don"

That is NOT what I received as answers from three different inspection stations, when I called and asked what I needed to provide. Don, obvbiously was able to cut through the nonsense and reached a solution to MY problem.

After receiving this great news, my inspection is scheduled for this friday, I emailed Don to thank him.
I also asked about this vague veil of secrecy about CRII, lawsuits, gag orders, etc. I wanted to know if I should not discuss my current experiences in this forum.

Here is the text of his email back to me:

"Tom, the problem I have is with a lawsuit from the former owner that is totally unwarranted. I have spent over $35k on legal fees to date just because I have to defend myself for a bogus lawsuit. The company has been sold but I am still awaiting payment. That will allow me to payoff some of my debt and fill backorders that are still out there. I have been in this business almost 20 years and it saddens me to have to leave it but I have no choice at this point. You can post whatever you would like, I appreciate it.
Thanks, Don"

I chose to build my car with CRII for a number of reasons.
One was the design, size, features, etc.
Two was the reputation of the company and integrity of the owner and his people. Especially in light of the fact that Don filled back orders when he took ownership.

I ordered the "everything kit", a crate engine and a new transmission.

I received every part I ordered. With the exception of my soft top which I believe will be filled eventually. I estimate 90% of my parts were delivered when I took delivery in March of '06. The remaining back ordered parts came along as they became available. Pete generally was able to get me what I needed so the build could continue to progress. I always had some part of the car to work on.

These have been difficult time for CRII and Don has experienced much criticism. I also have been very frustrated with the inability to communicate with CRII. I held back on offering criticisms, about Don, remembering all of the positive comments people have made in the past about Don's character. I'm glad I did, because he came through for me.

[tcrist]

Tom,
Glad that you got what you needed and I wish Don well in whatever he takes on.

Terry

[MaSnaka]

Thanks for sharing Twood,
It's nice to hear some positive news.

John

[jdean]

Yes thanks for the insight on Don. I always had a positive experience dealing with Don and Pete in the past. It is truly a shame this situation has befallen Don Scott. I wish him the best.

John

[TWOOD]

I ran into an unforseen question from the State Trooper last Friday at the inspection. SHe wanted to know where to look for the VIN number, stenciled on the frame. I thought she was talking about the new VIN plate that the BMV would create ahd she would rivet to the door jamb.
NO......she expected and wanted to see the VIN # (supplied by CRII on the Certificate of Origin) stenciled into the frame. I said there wasn't any. She was not happy and siad that there should be.
Fortunately, Don had given her his phone number, incase any problems came up during the inspection. She called, they talked, and I passed. She did not offer to relate the conversation and I didn't ask. Just took my papers, and my car, and said "thank you mam".
I don't know what Don said to her, but I'm sure glad he picked up the phone.
Save me once again, and I'm grateful!