It surprises me how frequently enthusiasts get so close to the finish line with a project, then for reasons unknown, decide not to continue moving forward and see it through to completion. That’s what seems to be happening with this 1956 Chevrolet, so if you’re in the market for a tri-five with four doors, this one seems like it has plenty of positives to consider. Located in Apple Valley, California, this sedan is a top-of-the-line Bel Air model, and it can be found here on eBay. A non-paying winning bidder forced the seller to relist his Chevy for a second time, and the present high bid of $8,700 still falls short of the reserve.
Matador Red and Dune Beige are said to be the original colors here, and while the seller stops short of stating the paint is still the factory-applied finish, the amount of patina present indicates it’s a possibility. Interestingly, several outside pieces have already been re-chromed, so maybe the owner’s original intention was to leave the panels as-is and not do a respray. That’s not a bad idea, as the tastefully aged presentation is sort of appealing. However, I might have to go ahead and perform what little bodywork is needed, then shoot on some fresh paint. It’s also fun to find the one-piece California-style bumpers here.
The future owner will be treated to a V8 of the 265 cubic-inch variety, which has already been rebuilt. However, the engine has not been started since the work was completed, and a few exterior parts are missing, such as the fuel pump and plug wires. It’s not specified if the powerplant is original to the car, and the valve covers say Corvette, so it’s possible this motor was sourced from an early C1. A driveshaft and radiator will also need to be located, but a new gas tank, fuel lines, brake lines, and exhaust system have already been installed. The frame was also removed, restored, and painted, so the seller is probably correct in saying this one’s not too far from ready to run.
Improvements have already begun inside as well, with the dash described as restored and gorgeous. The front seat shows what looks like just some minor wear, although the condition of the rear seat remains a mystery, as there’s a blanket on top. Some good news is the door panels are said to be inside the trunk, so hopefully, everything is here to put the interior back together when the time comes. I feel this 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is at an excellent point for the next person to take over. What do you think?
What a sweetheart. Think younger generations will know where the gas filler is? :)
Or the dimmer switch Howard.
Howard, Millenials & GenZ will spend a week looking for it & still need help.
same with the ’57!
Mch less reverse being all the way down on the shifter!!!
Nice one. Even the 4 door hard top looks good on this car.
One like it was my second car in HS. Slightly over-revved the little 265 and dropped a valve through a piston. Missed on that cylinder till I got home and parked. When I tried to restart, it filled the crankcase with fuel vapor. When it fired it blew the breather cap off and dented the hood on the underside. Hood was up and it barely missed my dad’s head!
“the valve covers say Corvette, so it’s possible this motor was sourced from an early C1.” More likley just the valve covers were sourced from a C1.
” More likely just the valve covers were sourced from a C1.”…or the local Pep Boys outlet, just sayin’…:)
Brilliant observation.
And then, who cares?
Another project devalued for lack of a day’s work to get it running. Second one in today’s email. Rebuilt? Do tell. Start it up.
From what I can see in the engine bay pictures, I think I can see an oil filter, if that’s the case this would be a newer 283!
Or any other small block real easy to check numbers now days
Only the 1955 265 did not have an oil filter.
Not a sedan. 4 door hardtop. This is basic stuff. Please don’t aggravate the current basic lack of knowledge exhibited by the current crop of “car people”.
Not so fast Bunky! Chevrolet advertised this as a Sport Sedan in all their literature.
Staggered valve cover bolts means 265 heads. One piece front damper and pully is 265 or early 283 as is the timing tag and cover. Looks like good project, you could not get this far into this project at twice the price
One of the best Chevrolet designs ever!