Model:
Bel Air, 210, 150, Nomad
Model Years Covered:
1955, 1956, 1957
Chassis Codes 1955:
55-1000 (Specialty models like Nomad, manual may group these)
Chassis Codes 1956:
56-1000 (Specialty models like Nomad, manual may group these)
Chassis Codes 1957:
57-1000 (Specialty models like Nomad, manual may group these)
Target Audience:
Restorers, mechanics, and enthusiasts working on 1955-1957 Chevrolet vehicles. Essential for accurate period-correct restorations.
Value Proposition:
Consolidates critical assembly, parts, and electrical information for three iconic model years, offering a comprehensive resource that would otherwise require multiple individual manuals.
Consolidation:
Bundles information for three distinct, yet closely related, model years into a single offering.
Diagrams Included:
Emphasis on detailed wiring diagrams, a crucial component for vintage vehicle electrical system repair.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive parts, restoration, and wiring diagram information for 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevrolet passenger cars.
Estimated Total Pages:
High volume, likely over 1000 pages combined. Specific page counts not provided, but indicative of full factory documentation.
Type:
Assembly Manuals, Parts Manuals, Restoration Guides, Wiring Diagrams.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (Blue Flame, V8 variants), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Powerglide, Synchro-Mesh), Drive Axle, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Drum Brakes), Chassis Components.
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Lighting System, Starting System, Charging System, Horn, Gauges, Switches, Wiring Harnesses (detailed diagrams included).
Body And Trim:
Body Construction, Sheet Metal, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Upholstery, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Grille, Badges, Convertible Tops (where applicable).
Assembly Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for assembling major vehicle components, chassis, drivetrain, body, and interior. Ideal for complete restorations or frame-off rebuilds.
Restoration Guidance:
Detailed information on part identification, correct assembly sequences, and potentially tips for restoration, often referencing original factory assembly practices.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits, essential for troubleshooting and repair of the electrical system.
Depth:
Factory-level technical depth. Covers component breakdown, assembly sequences, part interchangeability (within the specific year), and detailed electrical schematics.
1955 Engine Options:
235 cu in "Blue Flame" Inline-6 (115-140 hp), 265 cu in V8 (162-180 hp), 283 cu in V8 (195-240 hp - introduced later in '55).
1956 Engine Options:
235 cu in "Blue Flame" Inline-6 (123-145 hp), 265 cu in V8 (170-192 hp), 283 cu in V8 (180-210 hp).
1957 Engine Options:
235 cu in "Blue Flame" Inline-6 (140 hp), 265 cu in V8 (180-190 hp), 283 cu in V8 (185-270 hp, including fuel injection option - Rochester Ramjet Fuel Injection).
Torque Figures:
Varies significantly by engine option, but typically ranged from 200-250 lb-ft for V8s and 190-210 lb-ft for Inline-6, for common engines.
Carburetion:
Single-barrel (Inline-6, base V8s), two-barrel (optional V8s), four-barrel (performance V8s), Rochester Ramjet Fuel Injection (top-tier 1957 models).
Fuel Type:
Regular leaded gasoline (historically). Modern unleaded gasoline is typically used, with attention to octane rating.
1955 Standard Transmission:
3-speed Synchro-Mesh Manual (column shift).
1956 Standard Transmission:
3-speed Synchro-Mesh Manual (column shift).
1957 Standard Transmission:
3-speed Synchro-Mesh Manual (column shift).
1955 Optional Transmission:
2-speed Powerglide Automatic (column shift).
1956 Optional Transmission:
2-speed Powerglide Automatic (column shift), 3-speed Hydra-Matic Automatic (optional on some V8s).
1957 Optional Transmission:
2-speed Powerglide Automatic (column shift), 3-speed Turbo-Drive Automatic (column shift), 4-speed Hydramatic Automatic (optional on some V8s).
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (for manual transmissions).
Wheelbase:
115 inches (standard models), 113.2 inches (Nomad wagon).
Overall Length:
Approximately 195-200 inches depending on model and bumper style.
Overall Width:
Approximately 73.5 inches.
Overall Height:
Approximately 59-62 inches depending on model.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3200-3600 lbs depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated in product description, but typically around 4500-4800 lbs.
Crash Test Data:
No formal crash test ratings were conducted by modern standards during this era. Safety was primarily passive.
Braking System:
Hydraulic drum brakes, front and rear. Manual would detail adjustment and relining procedures.
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with steel body panels. Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards.
Seat Belts:
Not standard equipment. Available as an option on some models, detailed in relevant manuals if included.
Radio:
Optional AM radio, often featuring a single speaker. Manual may cover removal/installation and basic troubleshooting.
Features:
No modern driver assistance systems. Focus was on mechanical and basic electrical systems. Manual covers functionality of original features like power steering (optional).
Features:
N/A - Vehicles of this era predated automotive connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months, with specific recommendations detailed in the manual based on engine type and driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, and condenser typically required inspection/replacement every 10,000-15,000 miles. Manual will provide specific timing adjustment procedures.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 was common for V8s, while SAE 30 or 10W-30 for Inline-6. Manual will specify exact viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Transmission Fluid Powerglide:
Dexron-II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Manual will list specific GM fluid specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water). Manual will detail capacity and type.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially floor pans, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels), carburetor issues, ignition system wear (points, condenser, coil), drum brake adjustment and wear, rear axle seal leaks, exhaust system corrosion. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Part Identification:
Assembly manuals are crucial for identifying original part numbers and understanding how components fit together, aiding in sourcing correct restoration parts.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet's mid-century offerings were pivotal in establishing its reputation for accessible, stylish, and reliable American automobiles.
Tri Five Era:
The 1955, 1956, and 1957 models represent a distinct design evolution, often referred to collectively as the 'Tri-Five' Chevys. Each year introduced styling updates and mechanical refinements, culminating in the highly iconic 1957 model.
Production Numbers:
Millions of units were produced across these three years, solidifying their status as best-sellers and cultural icons.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily General Motors assembly plants across the United States.
Cultural Impact:
These models are widely recognized as automotive icons, frequently featured in films, television, and automotive media. They represent the zenith of 1950s American automotive design and engineering.
Collector Value:
High collector value, especially well-preserved examples or those with desirable options (e.g., V8 engines, Powerglide, Bel Air trim).
