Pekar's can make autos like new again
This week's featured Shop Wharton business
By BARRY HALVORSON bhalvorson@journal-spectator.com

Pekar's Body Shop began business in 1978. Since that time the business has kept up with the latest trends by adding new technology to its repair and restoration business.

Area residents looking to bring their car back to new following a crash or looking to restore a beloved ride need look no further than Pekar's Body Shop to find top-of-the line service.

Started in 1978 by owner Freddie Pekar, the repair and restoration business's present location is 2720 N. Richmond Road.

"This is actually my third location. I started back in 1978 working out of a small garage next to my mom's house," Pekar said. "My first framing machine was a tree. That was back when cars were cars."

Pekar explained that when he started work, U.S. car manufacturers used frames for car construction while foreign manufacturers were using the unibody system.

During the intervening years, all manufacturers, both domestic and foreign, have gone to the unibody system.

"We were among the first working on the foreign cars so we have that expertise," he said. "It allowed them to build cars using lighter metals making them more fuel efficient."

It also made them more difficult to restore like new.

"Even if they are in a small wreck, the body flexes and goes out of alignment," Pekar said.

"We've got two framing machines with laser technology so we're able to return the body to factory specifications. That means you have a smoother ride. That also means its more fuel efficient and reduces unnecessary tire wear."

A machinist by trade after high school, Pekar said he always loved working with cars - even racing for a while - and was skilled in body work from the start. His painting career took a little time to develop.

"The first vehicle I painted was a friend's van," he said. "It was canary yellow and it took me three times to get it right. But I learned from the mistakes."

Now Pekar's Auto Body features two bake ovens, allowing the business to put a factory fresh paint job finish on its work. And much of the work done is guaranteed for the life of the vehicle.

"The parts used have their own manufacturer's guarantees. But the body work is our guarantee. To be a certified insurance shop, you need that kind of expertise."

While there isn't the demand for custom work there has been in the past, Pekar said that doesn't mean those kinds of services aren't available. The company is in the process of restoring a 1953 Ford and a 1977 Chevrolet Blazer for different customers.

"That's always a fun challenge to take the vehicles I remember admiring growing up and making them new again," Pekar said.

Pekar's Auto and Body employs a total of 12 people. That group includes seven auto technicians, two painters and three office workers.

In addition to using new technology in the repair process, Pekar's is also getting the word out about his services on the Internet.

People seeking more information on the business can check them out on the Web at pekarautobody.com

Editor's note: This story is being written in conjunction with the Shop Wharton First promotion found on pages A6-A7.