How To Find A Good, Local ZR-1 Mechanic

[Erik]

When I went hunting for a local mechanic for 996, I thought I did my homework reasonably well. Got some tips from local Corvette club members. Owner was long time Corvette owners, with multiple examples over a number of series. 30 years experience as a mechanic. I asked if he had a Tech 1 or equivalent, and he said he did. Seemed ok.

Well, that didn?t work out well. Tech 1 was borrowed From a buddy and didn?t work right. What seemed at first to be thoughts on issues turned out to be wild guesses. Seems the approach was let?s keep changing parts until it starts running.

The shop that got my car running is 2 hours away, so I?d still like to have someone closer to home to deal with. My thought now is looking at Porsche mechanics in the area. Porsche guys usually look after their cars pretty well. The LT5 is closer to a Porsche engine, at least in approach, then a small block Chevy. Plus, a Porsche mechanic is likely more used to troubleshooting issues then just parts swapping. And yes, I mean a Porsche independent, not a dealer.

Any thoughts on this? Should I make up an interview for them? Questionnaire ? An exam they have to pass?

Anything else to look for?