Progress Update: ‘57 Chevy Bel Air

Paint Finish

In order to achieve a premium paint finish on this Chevy Bel Air we started with an exhaustive inspection and meticulous preparation of the body. After disassembly, every inch is carefully sanded, any imperfections are corrected, and the surface was primed to ensure a smooth base. High-quality materials and paints are selected, tailored to both the car's era and the owner's vision. Our expert painter then methodically applied the paint in our climate controlled spray booth, ensuring uniformity and durability of the finish. Each layer is carefully inspected and polished, guaranteeing that the end result not only meets but surpasses expectations.

Re-design of the Trunk Hood Ornament

This redesign started with the general shape of the original trunk ornament, which had a keyhole in the center to release the trunk. Along with James York (York Speed Shop), we altered the shape of the trunk ornament to something more fitting for the theme of this Bel Air. Adding a modern back up camera, we needed to integrate the camera into the modern electrical system being installed.  The problem lies in where to place the camera to insure it’s invisibility.  We want the camera to be completely unnoticeable, so therefore could not attach it to the bumper or back window as is commonly done. We settled on maintaining the keyhole and adding the camera lens into the hole on the emblem. York Speed Shop made several versions of the overall shape until we were happy with the design. Each prototype was 3-D printed until the final design was decided upon.

Since the 3-D models are too large for the printer envelope, York Speed Shop makes them in two pieces and glues them together. The trunk will open remotely, so there is no longer a need for the keyhole.  The design we landed on is a little longer, slimmer and more graceful, compared to the original. When finalized, the image will be converted to a digital file that will drive the Haas CNC machine to produce the final version in aluminum. The trunk ornament will then be plated. 

Once finished this Bel Air will be a joy to drive with all the modern innovations while retaining the beauty and style of the 1950s Chevy Bel Air. Check back in to follow our progress.