TriChrome
03-07-2018, 12:36 AM
From: BOB FORD [BOB_FORD@compuserve.com]
Sent: Wednesday, June 27, 2001 1:48 PM
To: Blind.Copy.Receiver@compuserve.com
Subject: 57-56-55 CHEVY LISTL
THIS IS THE 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST FOR
JUNE 27, 2001
THIS LIST IS DESIGNED AS A MEANS FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE 1955, 1956,
AND 1957 CHEVROLETS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER. ALL OPINIONS
ARE WELCOME.
TO POST SOMETHING ON THIS LIST PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR POST TO
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
THERE IS NO COST TO BECOME A LIST MEMBER AND ONLY LIST MEMBERS ARE
ALLOWED TO POST SOMETHING ON THE LIST.
THIS 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST IS NOT SENT OUT ON ANY SET SCHEDULE SO IF YOU
WANT TO POST SOMETHING THAT CONTAINS A DATE, PLEASE SEND IT IN EARLY
SO I CAN GET IT OUT TO THE LIST MEMBERS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE EVENT.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR CITY AND STATE WITH YOUR POSTS. IF YOU ARE
POSTING SOMETHING FOR SALE PLEASE ALSO INCLUDE
1. YOUR PHONE NUMBER
2 THE PRICE
3. WHEN YOU WILL BE AT YOUR PHONE NUMBER AND YOUR TIME ZONE.
TAKE AS MUCH SPACE AS YOU WANT AND FULLY DESCRIBE WHAT YOU HAVE
FOR SALE OR WANT TO BUY.
YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS LIST ARE WELCOME.
IF YOU WANT TO SEND ME E-MAIL THAT YOU DO NOT WANT ON THE LIST
PLEASE PUT "PRIVATE NOT FOR THE LIST' AS THE SUBJECT.
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS LIST ARE THE MEMBERS OPINIONS AND NOT
NECESSARILY MINE. I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OUT ANY MATERIAL NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR THIS LIST.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR NAME AS THE LAST THING ON YOUR E-MAIL.
BECAUSE OF THE DANGER OF A VIRUS, PLEASE DO NOT SEND ATTACHMENTS
WITH YOUR E-MAL. E-MAIL WITH ATTACHMENTS WILL NOT BE READ.
THANKS
BOB FORD
EDITOR
__________________________________________________ ____________________
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Tom64tbolt@aol.com, INTERNET:Tom64tbolt@aol.com
Thanks for all you do Bob.
Has anyone tried using the spindles, rotors and calipers off a 65-82
Corvette
on a 55-57 car? Also a while ago someone wrote in about using the disc
brake
setup off of an early Chevelle, any details on either of these swaps would
be
appreciated.
Thanks, Tom
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:SKECPE@cs.com, INTERNET:SKECPE@cs.com
JUST ANOTHER VIEW ON THE VIN AND COWL TAG NUMBERS. I TOTALLY AGREE ON
KEEPING
THE ORIGINAL VIN AND TITLE NUMBERS ACCURATE. BUT THE COWL TAG IS COMPLETELY
DIFFERENT. IF EVERYONE HAD THE SAME VIEW TOWARD THE NUMBERS THERE WOULD NOT
BE ANY OF THE COOL 55-57 MODIFIED OR CUSTOM CLASSICS. OR HOW ABOUT THE
OLDER
STREET RODS. I HAD RATHER SEE ONE OF THESE CARS ON THE ROAD THAN LET IT
RUST
AWAY BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE PROPER COWL TAG. I MADE A BELAIR OUT OF A
210 BECAUSE I LIKE A BELAIR BETTER, BUT I DIDN'T CHANGE THE COWL TAG. IF I
WAS TO EVER SELL IT I WOULD TELL THE BUYER. A NUMBERS MATCHING ORIGINAL IS
DIFFERENT THAN A MODIFIED OR CUSTOM
---------------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "JOHN", INTERNET:JONS56@MAINE.RR.COM
Hi Bob
I would like to add 605 power steering to 56 v8 belair. If anyone can help
please post it.
What donor vehicle parts will work? Year, engine size etc. would help.
Has anyone added power steering to their 56?
>what pump?
>what pulleys?
>what hoses will fit?
>what brackets?
---------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:lou1@westnet.com, INTERNET:lou1@westnet.com
bob,
yes there are soft shell crabs. i think that they are only available at a
very limited time, when their shell gets thinner than normal. maybe in
summer.
by the way, anyone need a pair of brand new front springs for a 55 - 57
chevy? email me lou1@westnet.com (that's a one after the lou)
anyone here have a new or rebuilt small block chevy distributor with cap
and vacuum advance?
louis
---------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Fuely327@aol.com, INTERNET:Fuely327@aol.com
Bob, I want to once again pick the brains of my fellow Tri-Fivers. I need
to replace the rearend in my '55. I have heard that an '87 thru 2000 S-10
4WD rearend will work. Does anyone know how many inches between the
backing
plates on these years? The original is 54.5. If this is not a viable
swap,
what late model is?
Grady Poole
Colbert, Ga 30628
------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:kmarang@mmcable.com, INTERNET:kmarang@mmcable.com
Hello all!
I am looking to buy an NOS hydraulic camshaft for my 1956 235 6cyl.
Does anyone have a #3836386 or #3836483 (later nos replacement number
for orig) NOS camshaft that is not used and still in a box??
Please email me if you do at keith@55-57chevys.com
Thanks!
--
Keith Marang
Webmaster Central Oklahoma Classic Chevy Club
Visit us at www.55-57chevys.com
-----------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: RICHARD GIMSÉR, INTERNET:richard.gimser@swipnet.se
To Richard Gimser; the Chevrolet dealer advertising postcard for the
'57 Belair 4-door sedan shows a surf green - highland green car. Hard to
beat factory photos for originality. The Classic Chevys of Southern
California web site has many of the postcards posted. Check out this
link.
http://home.earthlink.net/~lpettyjohn/POSTCARDS/57postcards.htm The
dealer showroom album has renderings of the interior. Not sure which
color are shown. What are you hoping to see in the interior photos?
-- Thank you. I've found the picture. I would like to see the color
combination inside.
Is there anyone on this list who has a 1957 with this color combination?
Richard
--------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: Jane & Jerry Graver, INTERNET:jjgraver@txcr.net
Bob,
I have the following that I want to sell.
56 265ci Chevy engine, disassembled less crankshaft & bell housing
$100.00 or best offer. Plus shipping.
Delco Factory Remanufactured Generator, Model 322-43, SN: A112086,
$50.00 or best offer. Plus shipping.
Delco Factory Remanufactured Generator, Model 10-U, SN: A8257, $50.00 or
best offer. Plus shipping.
Classic Chevy Magazines $3.00 each or make an offer for all remaining
issues. Plus shipping.
Gerald L. Graver
684 Canyon View Drive
Goliad, Texas 77963
(361) 645-3189
------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:DPete57@aol.com, INTERNET:DPete57@aol.com
Bob, regarding VIN #'s, make sure the # match's the title & the body style
&
if it doesn't walk away, I went thru a couple of experiences even tho I
have
bought a number of cars & almost had to eat the car to get it sold, buyer
beware. There are many articles about buying cars if people will take the
time to read, also about converting late model computer controlled engines
&
tranny's for use in 55-57 cars. I have a 57 283 engine for sale $200.00
U-haul plus a cargo floor & spare tire well from a 55 station wagon,$150.00
U-haul. Thanks, Don Peterson Historian,SJCCC DPete57@aol.com
-------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Chris Grasso", INTERNET:cpg@wrhs.org
With regard to Louis's question about Alexander Winton:
I often tell visitors, Cleveland was "Motown" before Detroit, and
Alexander Winton had a lot to do with the city's success as an automotive
town. There were over 80 car manufacturers in the NE Ohio area and all of
the Big Three still operate plants here. As the world prepares to
celebrate one hundred years of FoMoCo, there is little mention of Alexander
Winton's role as the racing competitor that Henry Ford set out to defeat.
The following biography is excepted from the Encyclopedia of Cleveland
History, http://ech.cwru.edu/
WINTON, ALEXANDER (20 June 1860-21 June 1932), automobile developer and
popularizer, was born in Grangemouth, Scotland, to Alexander and Helen Fea
Winton. He came to the U.S. at 19, and worked in Delameter Iron Works and a
marine engine shop before arriving in Cleveland in 1884. In 1891 he
organized Winton Bicycle Co., manufacturing a bicycle design he patented
that year. The business flourished, but within 10 years Winton left it to
manufacture automobiles, completing his first motor car in 1896,
incorporating WINTON MOTOR CAR CO. in 1897, and on 28 July beginning
America's first reliability run, a 9-day drive to New York, stimulating
investment and permitting construction of 4 more cars. The sale of one of
these on 24 Mar. 1898 was the first of an American-made standard-model
gasoline automobile. In 1899 Winton made a better-publicized 5-day drive to
New York, boosting interest and expanding sales.
Winton continued developing new automobile models, including racing cars,
but a decline in sales in the 1920s prompted Winton to liquidate that
company and concentrate on Winton Gas Engine & Mfg. Co., formed in 1912 to
produce marine engines (see CLEVELAND DIESEL ENGINE DIVISION OF GENERAL
MOTORS CORP.). In 1913 the company produced the first American diesel
engine. Winton retired after selling the firm to GM in 1930.
As a footnote to Winton's exit from the automobile business, it has
been said that Winton wanted to continue to produce quality vehicles or
none at all. It has also been postulated that he "got bored" with cars and
became more interested in diesel powerplants for locomotives and marine
use. Visitors to Cleveland may also see the fruits of the work begun by
Winton in the EMD diesels that power the U.S.S. Cod submarine museum.
The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in Cleveland owns four Winton
automobiles: an 1899 phaeton, a 1903 rear entrance tonneau, a 1907 touring,
and a 1921 touring. On loan to us from the Smithsonian are a 1898 Winton
phaeton, one of the first "production" autos to be sold, and Winton "Bullet
#1," among the first cars to exceed a mile a minute with none other than
Barney Oldfield at the wheel, and Winton "Bullet #2," an early
eight-cylinder racer.
To learn more about the Wintons and the rest of the collection, check
out our website: www.wrhs.org and click on the Crawford Auto-Aviation
Museum. Bob Ford list members will note the absence of a 55-56-57 Chevy
and, believe me, we feel this omission sharply; we are seeking one for
donation.
The concept car lost on the "Andrea Doria" was the Chrysler Norseman.
It had a fastback roofline reminiscent of a '66-67 Dodge Charger and the
roof was cantilevered (i.e.., the windshield had no "A"-pillars.) I
believe I have read that it was in some kind of vacuum-sealed canister. I
think some salvage expert should have a look.
Christopher P. Grasso
Assistant Curator of Urban & Industrial History--Transportation
Frederick C. Crawford Museum of Transportation & Industry Task Force
Western Reserve Historical Society
cpg@wrhs.org
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], bob_ford
From: "Edward Shockley", INTERNET:drshock@insectria.net
Bob,
Ad for the list.
I've got a rebuilt 1957 Chevrolet 283ci V8 short block for sale. It was
completely rebuilt a few years ago with new pistons, plugs, camshaft,
timing gears, new chain, and bearings, etc. All cylinders honed, one
re-sleeved, and hot tanked and magnafluxed. Bored .030 over. No oil pump
included.
Clear, crisp casting - very legible. Cast part 3731548 with a cast date of
D237. It has a stamp code of F515GF.
Over a grand in machine work alone I just don't need this guy. Sitting in
a Cosmoline and assembly lube wrap, looking for $800.00 for it, buyer to
pickup in Florida or I'll deliver to Fall Carlisle later this year.
FYI,
Edward Shockley
--------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Jack E. Mooney", INTERNET:mcspeedo@nfdc.net
Looking for a 1956 Chevy 1/2 Ton Shortbed 6 Cylinder Stepside P/U, will
buy...you keep the truck, I'll take the title.
-----------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
CC: [unknown], INTERNET:gwhitrun@mindspring.com
From: "Don Kent", INTERNET:dkent@socal.rr.com
Gary White asked:
In order to make your engine-283- run cooler do you use a lower
thermostat-160 rather than at higher like 185/195?
Yes, Gary, the 160 is the one the factory put in the car originally. The
185/195 thermostats are used on modern cars for emissions reasons. Back in
1957 that wasn't an issue. The numbers indicate what temperature water in
the block must reach before the thermostat will open to let in water from
the radiator.
Don Kent
'57 Bel Air 2 dr. H.T.
-----------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Bill Kautz", INTERNET:kautz@home.com
For Wyatt Smolick.
Yes, it was a DeSoto concept car that went down with the Andrea Doria.
It was an Italian design by, I believe, Ghia. I was in NYC when the other
ship, the Stockholm, docked after the collision off the Jersey coast. The
bow was a mess. Wild Bill
--------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Bill Kautz", INTERNET:kautz@home.com
Hi Bob,
Oh yes sir! They still sell soft crab sammiches in Bawlmer, Hon! Still
delicious but pricey nowadays. Usta be 50 cents for a sammich but now it's
'roun $7-$8-mebbe more! Wild Bill
Editor's note. After all of the years, I can still smell and taste those
wonderful crab cakes. Makes me want to get on a plane not stop to
Baltimore. I use to fish in the Sevrin river in Annapolis. Often I would
reel in a crab instead of a fish. What a treat.
BOB
-------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Anthony Babiak", INTERNET:TheBabiaks@prodigy.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>
About the only thing I remember is the great crab cakes in
Baltimore and Annapolis. When I tell people on the West Coast about soft
shell crabs, they think "that old guy has lost his marbles". Does
anyone know if soft shell crabs still exist.
BOB
<<<<<<<<<<
Yep, they're still on the menu in just about any seafood restaurant in that
area. I've had them in Ocean City MD a few times. As the Blue Crab grows
it's shell doesn't, so it has to shed it's old shell for room to expand.
All
crustaceans do this. Right at the time they molt is when they're caught and
served up as soft shells.
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:TONYCARZ@aol.com, INTERNET:TONYCARZ@aol.com
I have a set of N.O.S. (aftermarket) Seat Covers for 1957 and 1958
Chevrolet
on E-bay. These are not like today's seat covers; they are more like real
upholstery material. If anyone is interested, search by seller name
"TonyCarz" without the quotations. Thanks all, and especially Bob!
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:OLDCARS55@aol.com, INTERNET:OLDCARS55@aol.com
Bob,
I replaced the carrier bearings in my 3.55 Powerglide rear end last weekend
and discovered something rather interesting.
It looked as if some shadetree jerk who worked on my car before I owned it
replaced the carrier bearings with two sets of bearings that were
completely
different! The one on the right side, rather than being the standard
square
roller bearings which were put on from the factory, were actually barrel
shaped bearings. The casing holding in the barrel-shaped rollers was black
-- not the dark grey you see on the Timken bearings I replaced them with.
The other side was also some off brand I never heard of (I guess the idiot
found them somewhere lying around in a junkyard and put them in because
they
fit).
My mechanic friend told me that pinion bearings rarely failed in these rear
ends. He said the problems which usually occurred was with the carrier
bearings on the sides as that is where the most rolling friction occurs in
the transfer of power to the axles. Hence, we did not replace the pinion
bearings -- we merely hammered out the original crush sleeve and put it
back
in with the same shim that was in there.
We were able to tighten everything down to within .006" tolerance -with the
appropriate amount of preload.
Now, I still have the extra rear end which we are planning on rebuilding
with
all new bearings -- two Timken carrier bearings and two Timken pinion
bearings -- new seal, the works!
I would like to offer this completely rebuilt rearend to members along this
list before I list it on eBay, once I get it rebuilt.
I am looking to get around $450 for it -- the four bearings, races and seal
cost $186.00 from Tri-State Bearing. I will send the receipt I got with
the
parts.
Would anyone on here be interested in a totally rebuilt 3.55 rearend with
all
new Timken bearings? I can give interested parties the numbers off the
casing if date-code numbers are important.
David Scott Coker
oldcars55@aol.com
(812) 423-0403
---------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:CHEVYBA55@aol.com, INTERNET:CHEVYBA55@aol.com
Hi again Bob, still the great job as usual.
To Mike, on your overheating problem. I have yet to read any advise to you
on
your timing. Retarded timing can cause it to overheat. I've seen it many
times over the years and I've got 40 years in performance and repairs. Bump
your timing as high as you can get it, moving 2 to 4 degrees at a time
until
it pings when powerbraking or with a standard, slow loading acceleration in
3rd. gear, then back down 2 to 4 degrees. Every engine works on different
scales of timing and no 2 engines perform the same. Rod.....
-----------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Karl and Sue Mitchell", INTERNET:karlm@inforamp.net
Bob:
Thank you for your efforts on a wonderful site.
I am looking for the following parts for a 55 Chev Belair 4 door sedan
4 Bumperettes - both front and rear
Door sills for all four doors to trim around the carpet
Operational speedometer and speedometer dive gear for a two speed automatic
transmission.
Toronto Ontario Canada
Karl & Sue Mitchell
karlm@inforamp.net
Tel: 905-847-3036
------------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:cdmhenry@yahoo.com, INTERNET:cdmhenry@yahoo.com
<< To Richard Ochoa; I know where there is a '55 Olds 2-door hardtop
for sale. If you know the VIN or any other particulars of your car I
can check it out & let you know if it was yours. It's sorta close to home
(Nevada) & I plan to check it out around the 4th of July. Can at least
take some photos. >>
Thanks, but I really have NO INFO on any of my past cars, ONLY
PICTURES!!!!!!! Would you let me know what COLOR that Olds is, after
you
see it? Thanks, Richard
Richard,
You can count on photos, cowl tag info & VIN on the '55 Oldsmoker.
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:McGillis@aol.com, INTERNET:McGillis@aol.com
Hi, Bob, I think all of us in SoCal would like to know of a good shop to
straighten and polish stainless trim.
Thanks,
Dennis McGillis
Vintage Chevrolet Club of America
Orange County Region
949-551-4821 phone
949-551-1162 fax
949-533-7211 cellular
Editor's note. Dennis and other interested people. I don't make
recommendations any more after a terrible experience I had a few years ago.
I recommended a shop that had done quality work for me at a reasonable
price. I had inspected their work and had know several people that were
happy with the work. I had some work done at this shop and I was happy
with the quality of the work.
However, they did a very bad job for the person I recommended use the shop.
I am not sure the reason for the bad job. I heard, they had new people at
the shop. I felt very bad after I recommended the shop. Now I tell
people about my experience with vendors and explain that although I had a
good experience, I can not be sure they will.
For all of my chrome and stainless steel work, I use Verns Chrome Plating.
It's address is
1559 El Segundo Blvd., Gardena, California 90249. Phone number is
323-754-4162. Talk to Bob Barnes.
I have know Bob for many years and every job he has done for me was first
class. Warning, Bob's work is not the cheapest you can find. Quality work
is never cheap nor fast. If I have any more chrome or stainless work, I
will take it to Bob. If you see him, ask him to show you his BelWood. It
is a one of a kind woody Trifive wagon.
BOB
-------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:LKwasigroh@aol.com, INTERNET:LKwasigroh@aol.com
Bob,
My face is red. The measure of reluctance is the REL and not the Mho. The
other members who wrote in are correct. Mark it up to a "Senior Moment."
Larry - 56 210 Sport Sedan.
----------------------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: "Dean, Doug", INTERNET:Doug.Dean@Pfizer.com
Hi BOB!
Yes, BOB, I do want the information about the stainless trim repair shop
you
mentioned in the list.
THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doug Dean
Rogue River, OR
Editor's note. Please see above.
BOB
-------------------------------
To: "'BOB FORD'", BOB_FORD
From: "McNulty, Bob", INTERNET:BMCNULTY@csuchico.edu
Bob,
Yes !!!!! Soft shell crabs can still be had. Best breaded and deep fired
on good old white bread with mayo, lettuce, and tomatoe.
I'm a California boy born and raised and still live here. My wife was from
Baltimore and we go back east twice a year,
Christmas and Summer. Our summer ritual includes a trip to Ocean City.
We
spend a night on the board walk where the entire famiy feasts on soft
shelled crab sandwiches and Thrashers french fries. Woooh my mouth is
watering already.
I must say I'm addicted to the hard shells steamed with all the spices.
Better by far than the West coast dungenous, even if you cook them in Old
Bay.
Cheers,
Bob in Chico
-------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Browser521@aol.com, INTERNET:Browser521@aol.com
Yes, soft-shelled blue crabs are still available and popular, although as
the
supply has diminished the price has gone up. When I was growing up in VA,
we
could buy a bushel of blue hard shell crabs for $8.00. We used to steam
them
and have crab feasts with our friends. Hopefully, efforts to clean up the
Chesapeake bay will increase the crab population. Much progress has already
been made- grasses are increasing and some species of fish are returning in
large numbers.
On the car subject, I could use a stock front spindle for my '56. One of
them
has been replaced sometime and has only two holes for the brake backing
plate
instead of four. I thought it might be easier to find an original one from
someone converting to disc brakes than to drill and machine the spindle I
have. Also, what is the correct color for the idler arms, crosslink, etc. I
have seen both flat black and cast iron listed as correct. Which is it?
Thanks, David Browe
----------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "robert steacy", INTERNET:steacyr@hotmail.com
Hello Bob My name is Bob:
I am looking for a positration(355) for a 1956 Chev 2dr Delray coupe
which has a 355 cu.in. and a 4 speed trans.
I had all the wheel bearings and brakes redone and do not wish to
update
the rear end to a camaro or lemans one.
My address is
Steacyr@hotmail.com
Robert Steacy
1075 Bauder Cres
Kingston, Ontario.
Canada
Ph.# 613-389-3899
I hope someone out there has one for sale..?
T.Y Bob.
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:TeleStarGS@aol.com, INTERNET:TeleStarGS@aol.com
BOB--
One of our readers was looking for a 56 temp gage. If he has the old
gage, I can probably restore it for him. We restore classic radios and fuel
and temp gages.
Thanks Gary telestargs@aol.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
end of 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
BOB FORD
18091 MARK CIRCLE
VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA 92861-2648
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BOB_FORD/
http://members.home.net:80/rick.b/Bobford.htm
VOICE 714-637-8877
FAX 714-637-2955
Editor of the 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST and TURBOGLIDE REGISTRY
Sent: Wednesday, June 27, 2001 1:48 PM
To: Blind.Copy.Receiver@compuserve.com
Subject: 57-56-55 CHEVY LISTL
THIS IS THE 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST FOR
JUNE 27, 2001
THIS LIST IS DESIGNED AS A MEANS FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE 1955, 1956,
AND 1957 CHEVROLETS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER. ALL OPINIONS
ARE WELCOME.
TO POST SOMETHING ON THIS LIST PLEASE E-MAIL YOUR POST TO
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
THERE IS NO COST TO BECOME A LIST MEMBER AND ONLY LIST MEMBERS ARE
ALLOWED TO POST SOMETHING ON THE LIST.
THIS 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST IS NOT SENT OUT ON ANY SET SCHEDULE SO IF YOU
WANT TO POST SOMETHING THAT CONTAINS A DATE, PLEASE SEND IT IN EARLY
SO I CAN GET IT OUT TO THE LIST MEMBERS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE EVENT.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR CITY AND STATE WITH YOUR POSTS. IF YOU ARE
POSTING SOMETHING FOR SALE PLEASE ALSO INCLUDE
1. YOUR PHONE NUMBER
2 THE PRICE
3. WHEN YOU WILL BE AT YOUR PHONE NUMBER AND YOUR TIME ZONE.
TAKE AS MUCH SPACE AS YOU WANT AND FULLY DESCRIBE WHAT YOU HAVE
FOR SALE OR WANT TO BUY.
YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS LIST ARE WELCOME.
IF YOU WANT TO SEND ME E-MAIL THAT YOU DO NOT WANT ON THE LIST
PLEASE PUT "PRIVATE NOT FOR THE LIST' AS THE SUBJECT.
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS LIST ARE THE MEMBERS OPINIONS AND NOT
NECESSARILY MINE. I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT OUT ANY MATERIAL NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR THIS LIST.
PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR NAME AS THE LAST THING ON YOUR E-MAIL.
BECAUSE OF THE DANGER OF A VIRUS, PLEASE DO NOT SEND ATTACHMENTS
WITH YOUR E-MAL. E-MAIL WITH ATTACHMENTS WILL NOT BE READ.
THANKS
BOB FORD
EDITOR
__________________________________________________ ____________________
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Tom64tbolt@aol.com, INTERNET:Tom64tbolt@aol.com
Thanks for all you do Bob.
Has anyone tried using the spindles, rotors and calipers off a 65-82
Corvette
on a 55-57 car? Also a while ago someone wrote in about using the disc
brake
setup off of an early Chevelle, any details on either of these swaps would
be
appreciated.
Thanks, Tom
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:SKECPE@cs.com, INTERNET:SKECPE@cs.com
JUST ANOTHER VIEW ON THE VIN AND COWL TAG NUMBERS. I TOTALLY AGREE ON
KEEPING
THE ORIGINAL VIN AND TITLE NUMBERS ACCURATE. BUT THE COWL TAG IS COMPLETELY
DIFFERENT. IF EVERYONE HAD THE SAME VIEW TOWARD THE NUMBERS THERE WOULD NOT
BE ANY OF THE COOL 55-57 MODIFIED OR CUSTOM CLASSICS. OR HOW ABOUT THE
OLDER
STREET RODS. I HAD RATHER SEE ONE OF THESE CARS ON THE ROAD THAN LET IT
RUST
AWAY BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T HAVE THE PROPER COWL TAG. I MADE A BELAIR OUT OF A
210 BECAUSE I LIKE A BELAIR BETTER, BUT I DIDN'T CHANGE THE COWL TAG. IF I
WAS TO EVER SELL IT I WOULD TELL THE BUYER. A NUMBERS MATCHING ORIGINAL IS
DIFFERENT THAN A MODIFIED OR CUSTOM
---------------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "JOHN", INTERNET:JONS56@MAINE.RR.COM
Hi Bob
I would like to add 605 power steering to 56 v8 belair. If anyone can help
please post it.
What donor vehicle parts will work? Year, engine size etc. would help.
Has anyone added power steering to their 56?
>what pump?
>what pulleys?
>what hoses will fit?
>what brackets?
---------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:lou1@westnet.com, INTERNET:lou1@westnet.com
bob,
yes there are soft shell crabs. i think that they are only available at a
very limited time, when their shell gets thinner than normal. maybe in
summer.
by the way, anyone need a pair of brand new front springs for a 55 - 57
chevy? email me lou1@westnet.com (that's a one after the lou)
anyone here have a new or rebuilt small block chevy distributor with cap
and vacuum advance?
louis
---------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Fuely327@aol.com, INTERNET:Fuely327@aol.com
Bob, I want to once again pick the brains of my fellow Tri-Fivers. I need
to replace the rearend in my '55. I have heard that an '87 thru 2000 S-10
4WD rearend will work. Does anyone know how many inches between the
backing
plates on these years? The original is 54.5. If this is not a viable
swap,
what late model is?
Grady Poole
Colbert, Ga 30628
------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:kmarang@mmcable.com, INTERNET:kmarang@mmcable.com
Hello all!
I am looking to buy an NOS hydraulic camshaft for my 1956 235 6cyl.
Does anyone have a #3836386 or #3836483 (later nos replacement number
for orig) NOS camshaft that is not used and still in a box??
Please email me if you do at keith@55-57chevys.com
Thanks!
--
Keith Marang
Webmaster Central Oklahoma Classic Chevy Club
Visit us at www.55-57chevys.com
-----------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: RICHARD GIMSÉR, INTERNET:richard.gimser@swipnet.se
To Richard Gimser; the Chevrolet dealer advertising postcard for the
'57 Belair 4-door sedan shows a surf green - highland green car. Hard to
beat factory photos for originality. The Classic Chevys of Southern
California web site has many of the postcards posted. Check out this
link.
http://home.earthlink.net/~lpettyjohn/POSTCARDS/57postcards.htm The
dealer showroom album has renderings of the interior. Not sure which
color are shown. What are you hoping to see in the interior photos?
-- Thank you. I've found the picture. I would like to see the color
combination inside.
Is there anyone on this list who has a 1957 with this color combination?
Richard
--------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: Jane & Jerry Graver, INTERNET:jjgraver@txcr.net
Bob,
I have the following that I want to sell.
56 265ci Chevy engine, disassembled less crankshaft & bell housing
$100.00 or best offer. Plus shipping.
Delco Factory Remanufactured Generator, Model 322-43, SN: A112086,
$50.00 or best offer. Plus shipping.
Delco Factory Remanufactured Generator, Model 10-U, SN: A8257, $50.00 or
best offer. Plus shipping.
Classic Chevy Magazines $3.00 each or make an offer for all remaining
issues. Plus shipping.
Gerald L. Graver
684 Canyon View Drive
Goliad, Texas 77963
(361) 645-3189
------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:DPete57@aol.com, INTERNET:DPete57@aol.com
Bob, regarding VIN #'s, make sure the # match's the title & the body style
&
if it doesn't walk away, I went thru a couple of experiences even tho I
have
bought a number of cars & almost had to eat the car to get it sold, buyer
beware. There are many articles about buying cars if people will take the
time to read, also about converting late model computer controlled engines
&
tranny's for use in 55-57 cars. I have a 57 283 engine for sale $200.00
U-haul plus a cargo floor & spare tire well from a 55 station wagon,$150.00
U-haul. Thanks, Don Peterson Historian,SJCCC DPete57@aol.com
-------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Chris Grasso", INTERNET:cpg@wrhs.org
With regard to Louis's question about Alexander Winton:
I often tell visitors, Cleveland was "Motown" before Detroit, and
Alexander Winton had a lot to do with the city's success as an automotive
town. There were over 80 car manufacturers in the NE Ohio area and all of
the Big Three still operate plants here. As the world prepares to
celebrate one hundred years of FoMoCo, there is little mention of Alexander
Winton's role as the racing competitor that Henry Ford set out to defeat.
The following biography is excepted from the Encyclopedia of Cleveland
History, http://ech.cwru.edu/
WINTON, ALEXANDER (20 June 1860-21 June 1932), automobile developer and
popularizer, was born in Grangemouth, Scotland, to Alexander and Helen Fea
Winton. He came to the U.S. at 19, and worked in Delameter Iron Works and a
marine engine shop before arriving in Cleveland in 1884. In 1891 he
organized Winton Bicycle Co., manufacturing a bicycle design he patented
that year. The business flourished, but within 10 years Winton left it to
manufacture automobiles, completing his first motor car in 1896,
incorporating WINTON MOTOR CAR CO. in 1897, and on 28 July beginning
America's first reliability run, a 9-day drive to New York, stimulating
investment and permitting construction of 4 more cars. The sale of one of
these on 24 Mar. 1898 was the first of an American-made standard-model
gasoline automobile. In 1899 Winton made a better-publicized 5-day drive to
New York, boosting interest and expanding sales.
Winton continued developing new automobile models, including racing cars,
but a decline in sales in the 1920s prompted Winton to liquidate that
company and concentrate on Winton Gas Engine & Mfg. Co., formed in 1912 to
produce marine engines (see CLEVELAND DIESEL ENGINE DIVISION OF GENERAL
MOTORS CORP.). In 1913 the company produced the first American diesel
engine. Winton retired after selling the firm to GM in 1930.
As a footnote to Winton's exit from the automobile business, it has
been said that Winton wanted to continue to produce quality vehicles or
none at all. It has also been postulated that he "got bored" with cars and
became more interested in diesel powerplants for locomotives and marine
use. Visitors to Cleveland may also see the fruits of the work begun by
Winton in the EMD diesels that power the U.S.S. Cod submarine museum.
The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in Cleveland owns four Winton
automobiles: an 1899 phaeton, a 1903 rear entrance tonneau, a 1907 touring,
and a 1921 touring. On loan to us from the Smithsonian are a 1898 Winton
phaeton, one of the first "production" autos to be sold, and Winton "Bullet
#1," among the first cars to exceed a mile a minute with none other than
Barney Oldfield at the wheel, and Winton "Bullet #2," an early
eight-cylinder racer.
To learn more about the Wintons and the rest of the collection, check
out our website: www.wrhs.org and click on the Crawford Auto-Aviation
Museum. Bob Ford list members will note the absence of a 55-56-57 Chevy
and, believe me, we feel this omission sharply; we are seeking one for
donation.
The concept car lost on the "Andrea Doria" was the Chrysler Norseman.
It had a fastback roofline reminiscent of a '66-67 Dodge Charger and the
roof was cantilevered (i.e.., the windshield had no "A"-pillars.) I
believe I have read that it was in some kind of vacuum-sealed canister. I
think some salvage expert should have a look.
Christopher P. Grasso
Assistant Curator of Urban & Industrial History--Transportation
Frederick C. Crawford Museum of Transportation & Industry Task Force
Western Reserve Historical Society
cpg@wrhs.org
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], bob_ford
From: "Edward Shockley", INTERNET:drshock@insectria.net
Bob,
Ad for the list.
I've got a rebuilt 1957 Chevrolet 283ci V8 short block for sale. It was
completely rebuilt a few years ago with new pistons, plugs, camshaft,
timing gears, new chain, and bearings, etc. All cylinders honed, one
re-sleeved, and hot tanked and magnafluxed. Bored .030 over. No oil pump
included.
Clear, crisp casting - very legible. Cast part 3731548 with a cast date of
D237. It has a stamp code of F515GF.
Over a grand in machine work alone I just don't need this guy. Sitting in
a Cosmoline and assembly lube wrap, looking for $800.00 for it, buyer to
pickup in Florida or I'll deliver to Fall Carlisle later this year.
FYI,
Edward Shockley
--------------------------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Jack E. Mooney", INTERNET:mcspeedo@nfdc.net
Looking for a 1956 Chevy 1/2 Ton Shortbed 6 Cylinder Stepside P/U, will
buy...you keep the truck, I'll take the title.
-----------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
CC: [unknown], INTERNET:gwhitrun@mindspring.com
From: "Don Kent", INTERNET:dkent@socal.rr.com
Gary White asked:
In order to make your engine-283- run cooler do you use a lower
thermostat-160 rather than at higher like 185/195?
Yes, Gary, the 160 is the one the factory put in the car originally. The
185/195 thermostats are used on modern cars for emissions reasons. Back in
1957 that wasn't an issue. The numbers indicate what temperature water in
the block must reach before the thermostat will open to let in water from
the radiator.
Don Kent
'57 Bel Air 2 dr. H.T.
-----------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Bill Kautz", INTERNET:kautz@home.com
For Wyatt Smolick.
Yes, it was a DeSoto concept car that went down with the Andrea Doria.
It was an Italian design by, I believe, Ghia. I was in NYC when the other
ship, the Stockholm, docked after the collision off the Jersey coast. The
bow was a mess. Wild Bill
--------------------------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Bill Kautz", INTERNET:kautz@home.com
Hi Bob,
Oh yes sir! They still sell soft crab sammiches in Bawlmer, Hon! Still
delicious but pricey nowadays. Usta be 50 cents for a sammich but now it's
'roun $7-$8-mebbe more! Wild Bill
Editor's note. After all of the years, I can still smell and taste those
wonderful crab cakes. Makes me want to get on a plane not stop to
Baltimore. I use to fish in the Sevrin river in Annapolis. Often I would
reel in a crab instead of a fish. What a treat.
BOB
-------------------------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Anthony Babiak", INTERNET:TheBabiaks@prodigy.net
>>>>>>>>>>>>
About the only thing I remember is the great crab cakes in
Baltimore and Annapolis. When I tell people on the West Coast about soft
shell crabs, they think "that old guy has lost his marbles". Does
anyone know if soft shell crabs still exist.
BOB
<<<<<<<<<<
Yep, they're still on the menu in just about any seafood restaurant in that
area. I've had them in Ocean City MD a few times. As the Blue Crab grows
it's shell doesn't, so it has to shed it's old shell for room to expand.
All
crustaceans do this. Right at the time they molt is when they're caught and
served up as soft shells.
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:TONYCARZ@aol.com, INTERNET:TONYCARZ@aol.com
I have a set of N.O.S. (aftermarket) Seat Covers for 1957 and 1958
Chevrolet
on E-bay. These are not like today's seat covers; they are more like real
upholstery material. If anyone is interested, search by seller name
"TonyCarz" without the quotations. Thanks all, and especially Bob!
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:OLDCARS55@aol.com, INTERNET:OLDCARS55@aol.com
Bob,
I replaced the carrier bearings in my 3.55 Powerglide rear end last weekend
and discovered something rather interesting.
It looked as if some shadetree jerk who worked on my car before I owned it
replaced the carrier bearings with two sets of bearings that were
completely
different! The one on the right side, rather than being the standard
square
roller bearings which were put on from the factory, were actually barrel
shaped bearings. The casing holding in the barrel-shaped rollers was black
-- not the dark grey you see on the Timken bearings I replaced them with.
The other side was also some off brand I never heard of (I guess the idiot
found them somewhere lying around in a junkyard and put them in because
they
fit).
My mechanic friend told me that pinion bearings rarely failed in these rear
ends. He said the problems which usually occurred was with the carrier
bearings on the sides as that is where the most rolling friction occurs in
the transfer of power to the axles. Hence, we did not replace the pinion
bearings -- we merely hammered out the original crush sleeve and put it
back
in with the same shim that was in there.
We were able to tighten everything down to within .006" tolerance -with the
appropriate amount of preload.
Now, I still have the extra rear end which we are planning on rebuilding
with
all new bearings -- two Timken carrier bearings and two Timken pinion
bearings -- new seal, the works!
I would like to offer this completely rebuilt rearend to members along this
list before I list it on eBay, once I get it rebuilt.
I am looking to get around $450 for it -- the four bearings, races and seal
cost $186.00 from Tri-State Bearing. I will send the receipt I got with
the
parts.
Would anyone on here be interested in a totally rebuilt 3.55 rearend with
all
new Timken bearings? I can give interested parties the numbers off the
casing if date-code numbers are important.
David Scott Coker
oldcars55@aol.com
(812) 423-0403
---------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:CHEVYBA55@aol.com, INTERNET:CHEVYBA55@aol.com
Hi again Bob, still the great job as usual.
To Mike, on your overheating problem. I have yet to read any advise to you
on
your timing. Retarded timing can cause it to overheat. I've seen it many
times over the years and I've got 40 years in performance and repairs. Bump
your timing as high as you can get it, moving 2 to 4 degrees at a time
until
it pings when powerbraking or with a standard, slow loading acceleration in
3rd. gear, then back down 2 to 4 degrees. Every engine works on different
scales of timing and no 2 engines perform the same. Rod.....
-----------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Karl and Sue Mitchell", INTERNET:karlm@inforamp.net
Bob:
Thank you for your efforts on a wonderful site.
I am looking for the following parts for a 55 Chev Belair 4 door sedan
4 Bumperettes - both front and rear
Door sills for all four doors to trim around the carpet
Operational speedometer and speedometer dive gear for a two speed automatic
transmission.
Toronto Ontario Canada
Karl & Sue Mitchell
karlm@inforamp.net
Tel: 905-847-3036
------------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:cdmhenry@yahoo.com, INTERNET:cdmhenry@yahoo.com
<< To Richard Ochoa; I know where there is a '55 Olds 2-door hardtop
for sale. If you know the VIN or any other particulars of your car I
can check it out & let you know if it was yours. It's sorta close to home
(Nevada) & I plan to check it out around the 4th of July. Can at least
take some photos. >>
Thanks, but I really have NO INFO on any of my past cars, ONLY
PICTURES!!!!!!! Would you let me know what COLOR that Olds is, after
you
see it? Thanks, Richard
Richard,
You can count on photos, cowl tag info & VIN on the '55 Oldsmoker.
-------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:McGillis@aol.com, INTERNET:McGillis@aol.com
Hi, Bob, I think all of us in SoCal would like to know of a good shop to
straighten and polish stainless trim.
Thanks,
Dennis McGillis
Vintage Chevrolet Club of America
Orange County Region
949-551-4821 phone
949-551-1162 fax
949-533-7211 cellular
Editor's note. Dennis and other interested people. I don't make
recommendations any more after a terrible experience I had a few years ago.
I recommended a shop that had done quality work for me at a reasonable
price. I had inspected their work and had know several people that were
happy with the work. I had some work done at this shop and I was happy
with the quality of the work.
However, they did a very bad job for the person I recommended use the shop.
I am not sure the reason for the bad job. I heard, they had new people at
the shop. I felt very bad after I recommended the shop. Now I tell
people about my experience with vendors and explain that although I had a
good experience, I can not be sure they will.
For all of my chrome and stainless steel work, I use Verns Chrome Plating.
It's address is
1559 El Segundo Blvd., Gardena, California 90249. Phone number is
323-754-4162. Talk to Bob Barnes.
I have know Bob for many years and every job he has done for me was first
class. Warning, Bob's work is not the cheapest you can find. Quality work
is never cheap nor fast. If I have any more chrome or stainless work, I
will take it to Bob. If you see him, ask him to show you his BelWood. It
is a one of a kind woody Trifive wagon.
BOB
-------------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:LKwasigroh@aol.com, INTERNET:LKwasigroh@aol.com
Bob,
My face is red. The measure of reluctance is the REL and not the Mho. The
other members who wrote in are correct. Mark it up to a "Senior Moment."
Larry - 56 210 Sport Sedan.
----------------------------------------------------------------
To: BOB FORD, BOB_FORD
From: "Dean, Doug", INTERNET:Doug.Dean@Pfizer.com
Hi BOB!
Yes, BOB, I do want the information about the stainless trim repair shop
you
mentioned in the list.
THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Doug Dean
Rogue River, OR
Editor's note. Please see above.
BOB
-------------------------------
To: "'BOB FORD'", BOB_FORD
From: "McNulty, Bob", INTERNET:BMCNULTY@csuchico.edu
Bob,
Yes !!!!! Soft shell crabs can still be had. Best breaded and deep fired
on good old white bread with mayo, lettuce, and tomatoe.
I'm a California boy born and raised and still live here. My wife was from
Baltimore and we go back east twice a year,
Christmas and Summer. Our summer ritual includes a trip to Ocean City.
We
spend a night on the board walk where the entire famiy feasts on soft
shelled crab sandwiches and Thrashers french fries. Woooh my mouth is
watering already.
I must say I'm addicted to the hard shells steamed with all the spices.
Better by far than the West coast dungenous, even if you cook them in Old
Bay.
Cheers,
Bob in Chico
-------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Browser521@aol.com, INTERNET:Browser521@aol.com
Yes, soft-shelled blue crabs are still available and popular, although as
the
supply has diminished the price has gone up. When I was growing up in VA,
we
could buy a bushel of blue hard shell crabs for $8.00. We used to steam
them
and have crab feasts with our friends. Hopefully, efforts to clean up the
Chesapeake bay will increase the crab population. Much progress has already
been made- grasses are increasing and some species of fish are returning in
large numbers.
On the car subject, I could use a stock front spindle for my '56. One of
them
has been replaced sometime and has only two holes for the brake backing
plate
instead of four. I thought it might be easier to find an original one from
someone converting to disc brakes than to drill and machine the spindle I
have. Also, what is the correct color for the idler arms, crosslink, etc. I
have seen both flat black and cast iron listed as correct. Which is it?
Thanks, David Browe
----------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "robert steacy", INTERNET:steacyr@hotmail.com
Hello Bob My name is Bob:
I am looking for a positration(355) for a 1956 Chev 2dr Delray coupe
which has a 355 cu.in. and a 4 speed trans.
I had all the wheel bearings and brakes redone and do not wish to
update
the rear end to a camaro or lemans one.
My address is
Steacyr@hotmail.com
Robert Steacy
1075 Bauder Cres
Kingston, Ontario.
Canada
Ph.# 613-389-3899
I hope someone out there has one for sale..?
T.Y Bob.
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:TeleStarGS@aol.com, INTERNET:TeleStarGS@aol.com
BOB--
One of our readers was looking for a 56 temp gage. If he has the old
gage, I can probably restore it for him. We restore classic radios and fuel
and temp gages.
Thanks Gary telestargs@aol.com
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------
end of 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST
BOB FORD
18091 MARK CIRCLE
VILLA PARK, CALIFORNIA 92861-2648
BOB_FORD@COMPUSERVE.COM
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/BOB_FORD/
http://members.home.net:80/rick.b/Bobford.htm
VOICE 714-637-8877
FAX 714-637-2955
Editor of the 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST and TURBOGLIDE REGISTRY