Oh man, your story actually made my hard pound! I went through a similar experience with my body guy, but ended up getting the car done by him, for more$ than quoted/anticipated. I did take him to small claims court, but what was going against me was that I could have pulled the car long time ago. I am sure glad to hear you got you car out of there. I would under no circumstances let him talk you into "getting the work done" anymore. Avoid that [censored] at all cost! If you have documentation and the text conversations with him, I would draft up a letter, send certified mail/return receipt giving him an ultimatum of say 14 days to return your parts or the cash to cover, mentioning you will not pursue legal action for the the time lost, u-haul truck, transporters etc. See what he comes back with. Round two would be have a lawyer draw up a letter, round 3 small claims or even file lawsuit against him. Sure glad you got your car out of there! Hang in there, give your baby a hug and find a retired body man close to you to finish it up. Wish you all the best, and good luck!
