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03-07-2018, 01:18 AM
From: BOB FORD [BOB_FORD@compuserve.com]
Sent: July06¤é2002¦~Saturday 8:17 AM
To: Blind.Copy.Receiver@compuserve.com
Subject: 57-56-55 CHEVY LISTL

THIS IS THE 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST FOR
JULY 6, 2002

IF THIS E-MAIL HAS AN ATTACHMENT, IMMEDIATELY DELETE THIS E-MAIL.

THIS LIST IS DESIGNED AS A MEANS FOR PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE 1955, 1956,
AND 1957 CHEVROLETS TO COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER AND HAVE A
LITTLE FUN IN THE PROCESS. 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.

IF YOU BUY SOMETHING FROM A LIST MEMBER, PLEASE BE AWARE THAT I HAVE
NO WAY OF KNOWING THE QUALITY OF THE PRODUCT OR THE HONESTY OF THE
SELLER. BUYER BEWARE.

BECAUSE OF THE DANGER OF A VIRUS, PLEASE DO NOT SEND ATTACHMENTS
WITH YOUR E-MAIL. E-MAIL WITH ATTACHMENTS WILL NOT BE READ.

THANKS
BOB FORD
EDITOR
__________________________________________________ ____________________
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Gary Howard", INTERNET:garysgearbox@dragonbbs.com

I read with a lot of interest the "Gang" article by Woodsman Motel Cafe. It
was a super article and brought back memories of our gang. He was right
along the same plane as our gang concerning the things they did to have
fun and not intentionally hurt anyone but ourselves. These stories are
similar to guys trying to tell folks what it was like in combat. You just
had to live it. And oh what a grand life it was. As a seventeen year old I
can recall going to the local Chevy dealer in September 1956 to see the
much talked about 1957 chev car with the "New engine" and something called
fuel injection. The dealer ship actually had black drapes completely
covering the windows for a week while the set up for the opening.
News spread fast about a local legend (still living) in our neck of the
woods who stopped in and took delivery on a Black high performance 270 hp 3
speed 1957 chev. We watched him at the drag strip as he raced and then
fist fought with the losers. (true)
Then one night while street racing and going for 2nd gear Porter sent the
clutch and flywheel through the dash and roof. He was unhurt.
Our gang and I still have the pictures. consisted of my 1955 hardtop
210 and Jim, Bob and Tom all having 57's. Our mechanical ability was
limited to changing cams and plugs. So are cars were quick factory cars
that became noticed in our town of Newport, KY. due to their great
appearance and from being towed by the police for street racing.
One very hot summer night, we were cruising Newport, Ky in Tom Smith's
white 57 220 hp car. And while stopped at a traffic light about 9:00 p.m.
this night we heard the sound of another high performance chev with quiet
mufflers pull up behind Us. We were trying to see what kind of car it was
but the lighting was poor and he was on our bumber screaming his engine,
and when it died down he stuck his head out the window and yelled, "Lets
Go". Well, I stuck my hand out the window and waved him on and yelled,
Route 8. As he followed us as we turned the corner we all had big time
rushes and Tom was gunning the engine hard now to warm up everything. When
we turned the corner, I could make out the car as a Bronze colored 1955
Chev with Ohio Plated and Traction Bars.
We drove to Route 8 which runs parr ell to the Ohio River just outside
of Dayton, Ky. There was a turn around on the river side of the road. On
the other side was this very large hill that must have risen 400 to 500
feet. We pulled and this tall guy with black hair got out of his car and
said "Who is going to flag. I quickly said I
would. No other words were spoken.As we were all standing there
on that beautiful evening, I can still recall the moon casting its
reflection on the river as I listened to this guys motor. It was a sound
now familiar to me. Our cars all had the .097 lope but his car sounded
different, like there was more to it and the cam produced a different sound
as it idled much faster. And this guy was confident...... In an instant he
flopped on the ground and removed the "Cut out caps". We all looked and
each other and someone mouthed the word S***. This was the most awesome
sound we has ever heard. The year was 1961 so it was difficult to try to
imagine what motor was in the car. The sound of the car was mesmerizing. He
jumped back into the car and hit the accelerator pedal twice and a
tremendous roar almost deafened us as the echo from the hill and the Ohio
valley carried that wonderful sound for miles. As they pulled into the 2
lane black top, I told Tom to be careful. Now we are in the middle of the
road and both guys are juicing their engines with me standing between them.
I can feel the heat and the rush of exhaust. Tom's car was not putting out
half the horse power as the other car. I walked to this stranger and told
him that the race ended at the large white bill board which measured
exactly a quarter mile. Then I got another shock as I saw him shift that
floor shift into first gear. I quickly relayed this last minute info as
both guys are pushing their motors hard and its getting very hot where I'm
standing. I quickly backed up 20 feet, made eye contact with both of them
jumped in the air and came down hard with a pointed hand. Immediately, I
heard a roar like I never heard before, It was so awesome it was scary. at
the same time his car bogged to the point of the engine dying and Tom's car
fish tailed and almost hit me. From this point the stranger is trying
desperately to unbogg his carb.....or CARBS?

Who knowns! I turn around just in time to see Tom hit second gear and I
think, Tom's going to beat this guy. I no sooner finished thinking this
than this guys car came out of its bog and his car was a blur of speed
power and sound. I can hardly describe the sound his car made and carried
on that warm night there in that River valley. He passed Tom just as Tom
hit third gear and Tom later told me that when he got to the billboard the
guy was gone.
Well we all needed a beer after that, forget the girls. So off we went.
Over a beer I related that while watching this guy drive that 55, he was
all over the cockpit of that car being very busy as if he was jumping on
the clutch and using his entire body to shift the trans. I had never seen a
display like that before.
Now the story fast forwards two weeks down the road and our gang was
at the Drag strip. We were watching the race when a black 55 chev with the
rear wheel wells cut out to have very large slicks on the car. As this car
was on the line, I thought that the sound of that motor sounded familiar.
Well when the cars took off the driver of the black 55 was jumping all over
the cockpit just like our stranger had done two weeks earlier. This car ran
10:20 in the quarter mile. When the guy and his car came down the return
strip, I recognized the guy as the stranger in the Bronze 55 that we had
raced two weeks earlier. I went over to inspection and ask about the very
tall stranger with black hair and the black 55 chev.
They told he his name was Herb Marks. The inspector told me that Heb
usually raced at the other drag strip in our area. He told me that Herb was
a very high profile racer, an innovator and a winner. The inspector told
us that he was one of the first guys in our area to run a full race cammed
big block in a tri- five car. So we all had a good story to tell for a long
while. The end of this story and for Herb came at Edgewater Dragstip two
years later. His Chevy powered Willy's went out of control as he left the
starting line and his throttle stuck causing the car to roll and kill him.
Boy this guy could really put on a shoe jumping around that cockpit. And
Tom, Jim, Bob and me, well we feel that we got beat by the best.

Gary Howard Jim Wilson Tom Smith Bob Barnhorn
The gang of 1959 1963
Newport, Ky.

Editor's note. Great story Gary. Like you, I have done a lot of things in
my youth that I would have a fit if my kids did the same thing. Can anyone
else relate to that?
BOB
-----------------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Tom Mueller", INTERNET:blt@west.net

Bob

You suggested several weeks back that I give Vern's Plating (Gardena, CA) a
call as a possible source for doing the plating on my 55.

Stopped by his shop the other day and had a chat with Bob Barnes. It
looks like I am going to give him a try. What I liked is that when you
walk thru the door, there were the tanks and people plating parts. no
question about where the work is done, no question about the triple plate
process.

He showed us the room where he keeps the finished goods and allowed us to
look at his work (both steel and pot metal) In my opinion, it looked
great.

Good consistent coloring from one piece to the other. Considering the
process, the shop was very clean and organized.

What I really liked above all, Bob took time, was informative about the
process, particularly the pot metal, and is a straight shooter about what
should be plated and what should be purchased in the aftermarket.

I am going to try him and will let the "list" know my thoughts after the
job
is done.

He does powder coating as well but I did not look into that part of his
business.

Thanks Again for the lead.
Tom
Simi Valley
Ventura County Chevy's
----------------
To: "'BOB FORD'", BOB_FORD
From: "Glancy, Tom", INTERNET:Tom.Glancy@MiniMed.com

Anybody know of a place that actually has left and right hood hinges for a
56 Nomad --- New or Reproduction ? ? ? Everbody seems to have them on back
order

tomg@minimed.com
Tom Glancy
------------
To: "FORD, BOB", BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:lfalk@wiktel.com, INTERNET:lfalk@wiktel.com

I have install a 392 Chrysler hemi and torqueflite into a '57 Chevy
wagon.This engine wasn't blown,but there would have been plenty of room
for one. The hardest part was cutting and reboxing the left fram rail so
that we could move the steering sector further out.We didn't cut the
firewall,so we had to move the radiator forward some because of the
longer overall length of the motor.Other than that it was just to
fabricate mounts for the motor and the tranny.The car ran and drove well
in spite of the extra weight on the front suspension.We tried to talk
the customer out of this conversion,but he insisted that he had always
wanted an old hemi in a '57,so we put it in.
Thanks for the list Bob,it's the greatest.
Leroy
----------------------
To: [unknown], bob_ford
From: "", INTERNET:jefcoat@panola.com

Hi Bob; I recently bought a 1956 Chevy Bel Air and am trying to find out
about the rear end in the car. Is there a code number somewhere showing if
it is original? The rear plate has been replaced with a chrome plate...it
has 10 bolts holding it on, does this sound like it's an original? I need
to replace a wheel cylinder and am not sure what about the year of the rear
end. Thanks!!!!

A note to Fred Vail: I met you several years ago with my son Keith, we came
to your studio in Nashville...Keith plays country music, don't know if you
remember or not??? Also, you came over to the Mid Tenn Classic Chevy show
at the Holiday Inn Express near the airport in Nashville, was wondering if
you will be there with your 55 Chevy this September?? I know it is held at
a different location this year, if you haven't gotten the info on it, let
me know and I'll e-mail it to you. Bobby Jefcoat
-------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Robert Willis", INTERNET:willisb@kos.net

The first Chev V8 was in 1917 and 18 ( as my memory serves me) but
this was before Chevrolet became part of G.M. .
The first G.M. Chevrolet engine was the 55 265 that was designed by Ed
Cole and Harry Barr.
The rocker Arms for these engines came from a Pontiac design by John
Dolza. Later on Dolza fine tuned the Fuel Injection systems that went into
production in 57.
Zora-Duntov tweeked the small block ( cams etc.) and helped tune the
suspensions .

Bob willisb@kos.net
http://members.kos.net/willisb/
-----------
To: "BOB FORD", BOB_FORD
From: "Jerry Whitfield", INTERNET:wwhitfield@triad.rr.com

235" complete engine from GM, used in Chevy cars, trucks,
It is out of the vehicle and ready to be loaded up.
, $250. I also have
straight transmission for $100. email:
wwhitfield@triad.rr.com for picture, Winston Salem,
NC. 27103. 336-765-8312 evenings only.
-----------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: Glenn Krumm, INTERNET:gekrumm@veracom.net

Fred: Thanks for the compliment. We're glad you made it to the Nashville
show and that you enjoyed it, even if we did get off to a rocky first
impression by misspelling your name! I'm the one who registered
you. Sorry I didn't make the connection then. I haven't read the list
very long, and your name didn't ring a bell. I'm glad you wrote about the
show, because I was wondering if the guy from the list who asked about
shows made it. I'm glad you were able to connect with several other list
members. Maybe we can get acquainted if you make it to Tulsa (but we won't

be there until Friday evening). We have the teal and white '55 that was in

the Governor's altered class. Hope you make it to Tulsa. That should be a

good show. They're expecting a lot of cars. Emma Krumm, Bow Tie Kansas
Associate
--------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:JWargowski@aol.com, INTERNET:JWargowski@aol.com

Garage moving sale ...

I'm moving out of state and have a five gallon bucket (approx 60 lbs)of
glass bead for media blasting that I'd like to get rid of. Free to the
first taker - I will not deliver. It has been used, but has plenty of
cutting life left in it.

If interested, call (310) 892-6265 (Los Angeles, west side)

Thanks,
Jim Wargowski
------------------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:Fifdee7@aol.com, INTERNET:Fifdee7@aol.com

Hi Bob,
In reply to Raeber57@aol.com about the S-10 rearend into a 55-57, is that
a
rear from a 2 wheel or 4 wheel drive truck. is it a S10 Blazer or Pickup(or

dosen't it matter) and is there a disc brake in these trucks that have the
same bolt in ability. Also do you have the wheel to wheel measurement ?
Which
year S-10 fits ?

Thanks........Bob Regian Fifdee7@aol.com
----------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
CC: [unknown], INTERNET:Karfitter@aol.com
From: INTERNET:Nagel101044@aol.com, INTERNET:Nagel101044@aol.com

Actually, Karfitter is very close, but it is Zora Arkus Duntov. Ed Cole
headed up the design team that brought the '55 Chevy smallblock to life.
Zora
may have done some work under Cole on the initial project, but was more
involved with the development of high-performance parts (remember the term
"Duntov cam") in later years. Yes, he was 1/2 of the team that designed the

ARDUN OHV conversion.

I hadn't heard that one about smuggling before - but who knows?
--------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
CC: [unknown], INTERNET:garysgearbox@dragonbbs.com
From: INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com, INTERNET:GTerry1969@aol.com

Gary,
I read your article regarding installing AC, using a templete. If that was
used for installing factory AC vents in the dash, I am in the process of
installing at the present time and if there is any way you can help me out
by
getting a copy of the templete it would be appreciated.
Thanks,
GTerry1969@aol.com
---------------------------------------------
To: "'BOB_FORD@compuserve.com'", BOB_FORD
From: "Wellman, Mark A (GEP)", INTERNET:Mark.Wellman@gepex.ge.com

Hi Folks,
Just adding some insight to the debate on " fixed " car prices.
If it were only that simple!
Remember that about 90% of car buyers want to trade in their old car
on the new one. That , for all practical purposes , eliminates the one
price theory.
ALL car dealers need to build in some profit on the used car they take
on trade. So as long as a trade- in is involved there will never be "fixed"
pricing on cars.
On outright buy deals , most car dealers will discount the sticker price.
In a country were we trade in perfectly good cars every two or three years
for ridiculous "reasons", I am always amazed how frustrated we make
ourselves
over buying a car.
Thanks for the list,
Mark Wellman
--------------------
To: Bob Ford, BOB_FORD
From: Tamara Tresko, INTERNET:twtresko@pacbell.net

Hi all, is there anyone who can help this person.... ??? I know this is
not tri-five.. was hoping I was not stepping out of bounds here. This came
to my club website.......Tammy

Howdy from FLA.

I am replacing the power brake booster & master cylinder assembly on my
wife's 65 Impala 4 dr. I am looking for any literature/reference
materials, instructional materials for this procedure. The Chevy
shop/service manuals have very limited information regarding this type of
procedure. I
have some tech articles from Late Great Chevys, but they too only go so
far.
And Classic Chevy International did not have any tech articles on 65's.
Please forward to any club members, friends, etc. who may have completed
this type
of procedures. Need any printed information and any sage advise and/or
warnings from folks who have done this before. This will be my first time
attempting this procedure, so any help I can get would be appreciated.

Also, cannot find much instructional material on replacing bushing and ball
joints on the lower control arms of the front suspension. Any direction,
data, advise, special techniques, etc. is needed.

Thank you for your assistance in this matter.

Dave in Florida
DRDezign@aol.com or roberts@vitetta.com
407-831-5687 home
407-426-1270 work
---------------------------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: "Russ Rinta", INTERNET:russrinta@hotmail.com

I have a 55 Chevy National Service Data two ring manual that go's to page
508. i don't know if any pages are missing or not. I also have a 1955 Chevy

shop manual That is good except for the front cover and second page is
mostly gone. I have had these books forever and thought if someone could
use
them i would let them go for $25.00 plus postage. I am in Florida so anyone

could pick them up here to. Russ 352-637-5360 or
russrinta@hotmail.com PS also have a 57 235 engine in good shape if
interested
russrinta@hotmail.com Hernando Florida Russ & Roberta
-----------
To: [unknown], BOB_FORD
From: INTERNET:WSSmolick@aol.com, INTERNET:WSSmolick@aol.com

I have a few large parts that I would like to get rid of, however, I will
not
ship them; you must come get. Included is a '55/'56 sedan/wagon clear
windshield with a repairable 1.5" crack in from one edge, front half of '55

4dr drivers' side quarter panel (has nice wheel area); drivers' side '55
front inner fender; and a pair of 4dr sedan rear doors (complete with
accessory ventshades and internals). Take all for $20. I'm located just
north of Reading, PA .

Wyatt S. Smolick
Fleetwood, PA
WSSmolick@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/
VOICE 714-637-8877
FAX 714-637-2955
Editor of the 57-56-55 CHEVY LIST and TURBOGLIDE REGISTRY
I plan to live forever, so far so good