Jeremy VanWert's 1956 Chevy - A Family Restoration
About this episode
Jeremy Van Wert shares the heartfelt journey of restoring his family's 1956 Chevy Bel Air, a car rich with sentimental value. Originally purchased by his mother for her college commute, the car became a cherished family heirloom, transporting generations home from the hospital and on family trips. After years of neglect, Jeremy and his father embarked on a frame-off restoration, balancing modern upgrades with respect for the car's history. The emotional reunion between Jeremy and his mother, as she sees the transformed vehicle, highlights the deep connections cars can forge within families.
We are excited to have Jeremy VanWert join us from California to share the story of his frame up restoration of the families 1956 Chevy. The restoration story is as amazing as the history of the car. Such a wonderful story about how one car mended relationships and brought a family back together. A fun and powerful story that you will enjoy.
frame-off restoration
"...his 1956 Bel Air's frame off restoration. Jeremy, thanks so much for reaching out to us. It's always great to hear stories like yours that you're going to tell us..."
Frame-off restoration means taking a car apart completely to fix and clean everything, both the body and the frame. It's a detailed way to make an old car look and work like new.
Frame-off restoration is a meticulous process where a vehicle's body is completely removed from its frame to allow for thorough restoration of both the body and the chassis. This method ensures that every part of the car is restored to its original condition or better.
Chevrolet 210
"grandpa was a Ford mechanic. They purchased for her a 1956 and it wasn't a Bel Air it was a four door 210 series sedan."
The Chevrolet 210 is a car model from 1956, part of a popular family of cars known for being dependable. It was often used for everyday transportation.
The Chevrolet 210 is a model from the 1950s, part of the Chevrolet Bel Air family. It was known for its reliability and was often used as a family car.
Chevrolet Bel Air
"...ic. They purchased for her a 1956 and it wasn't a Bel Air it was a four door 210 series sedan. And this wa..."
The Chevrolet Bel Air is a classic car that many people think of when they imagine the 1950s in America. The 1956 model is especially well-known for looking great and being fun to drive, making it a favorite among car lovers and collectors.
The Chevrolet Bel Air is an iconic American car that was produced from 1950 to 1975, with the 1956 model being a standout year known for its stylish design and powerful performance. It represents the classic era of American automobiles and is often celebrated for its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance. The Bel Air is frequently discussed in the context of classic car shows and restoration projects.
283 engine
"No it was the eight. It was an eight. Okay probably 283 if I had a cake. That is exactly what it was."
The 283 engine is a type of V8 engine made by Chevrolet. It's known for being powerful and was used in many cars in the 1950s.
The 283 engine is a small-block V8 engine produced by Chevrolet, known for its performance and reliability. It was commonly used in various Chevrolet models during the 1950s.
Ford
"Yeah all right sorry about and it's funny that your grandfather was a Ford you said a Ford tech is that right?"
Ford is a popular car brand in America that makes many types of vehicles, including cars and trucks.
Ford is a well-known American automotive manufacturer, famous for its trucks, cars, and innovations in the automotive industry.
1940 Lincoln Zephyr
"Oh yeah and then grandpa he's another story he he owned a 1940 Lincoln Zephyr that we still own by the way."
The 1940 Lincoln Zephyr is an old luxury car that was known for its smooth design and comfortable ride.
The 1940 Lincoln Zephyr is a classic American luxury car known for its streamlined design and advanced engineering for its time.
Chevrolet Corvette
"puts Corvette valve covers on it just as a little extra for for for things"
The Corvette is a fast sports car made by Chevrolet that is famous for its cool looks and speed.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines, often considered an American icon.
restomod
"...I wanted something that had more restomod characteristics and..."
Restomod is when you take an old car and fix it up, but also add new parts to make it work better and be safer. It's like mixing the old style with new technology.
Restomod refers to a vehicle that has been restored to a certain era but also modified with modern components for improved performance, comfort, or safety. This approach allows car enthusiasts to enjoy classic aesthetics while benefiting from contemporary technology.
restored
"...she wanted this thing bolt for bolt Detroit she wanted it restored..."
Restored means fixing a car to make it look and work like it did when it was new. This can involve a lot of repairs and cleaning.
Restoration in the automotive context refers to the process of returning a vehicle to a like-new condition, often involving repairs, refinishing, and replacing parts to restore its original appearance and functionality.
sway bars
"...these were things like you know sway bars dropping the suspension and putting kragers on just because..."
Sway bars are parts of a car's suspension that help keep it stable while turning. They connect the wheels on opposite sides of the car to reduce how much the car leans during turns.
Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, are components that help reduce body roll during cornering by connecting the left and right wheels. They improve handling and stability, especially in performance and modified vehicles.
disc brakes
"...because I'm taking mountain roads up here and I need disc brakes in front because deer are not good at making great choices..."
Disc brakes are a kind of brake system that uses a flat disc to help slow down or stop the car. They work better than older types of brakes, especially when the car is going fast.
Disc brakes are a type of braking system that uses a disc-shaped rotor and caliper to slow down or stop a vehicle. They provide better stopping power and heat dissipation compared to drum brakes, making them popular in modern vehicles.
dagmars
"...those things are called dagmars by the way just fyi the bullets dagmars well thank you you're well..."
Dagmars are the round, pointy parts on the front of some classic cars. They help protect the car and add a unique look.
Dagmars are protruding components on the front of classic cars, often used as bumpers or decorative elements. They were named after actress Dagmar, who was known for her curvy figure, which the design resembles.
power steering
"these decisions that I made power steering disc brakes these different things replacing the engine..."
Power steering makes it easier to turn the steering wheel, especially when the car is moving slowly or stopped.
Power steering is a system that helps drivers steer the vehicle by using hydraulic or electric actuators to reduce the amount of effort needed to turn the steering wheel.
700 R4
"taking out the power book power glide transmission and putting in a 700 r4 these were things that I had to sit down..."
The 700 R4 is a type of automatic transmission that helps the car change gears smoothly and can handle powerful engines.
The 700 R4 is a four-speed automatic transmission developed by General Motors, known for its versatility and ability to handle increased power, commonly used in various GM vehicles.
lap belts
"...shoulder belts in the front and lap belts in the back and those were obviously not things that were originally in that car but I wanted them..."
Lap belts are the seatbelts that go across your lap to keep you safe in the car. They help hold you in your seat during a crash.
Lap belts are a type of seatbelt that goes across the lap of the occupant, securing them in their seat. They are often used in conjunction with shoulder belts to provide comprehensive safety during driving.
shoulder belts
"...even though some of the purists would kind of giggle at me is shoulder belts in the front and lap belts in the back..."
Shoulder belts are the seatbelts that go over your shoulder to help keep you safe in the car. They work with lap belts to protect you during a crash.
Shoulder belts are a type of seatbelt that goes across the shoulder and chest of the occupant, providing additional safety in the event of a collision. They are designed to keep passengers securely in their seats and reduce the risk of injury.
RPO (Regular Production Option)
"...maybe not a rpo which is reproduction product order or whatever it calls from the Chevrolet side of things but to be able to customize it to the point..."
RPO is a code that car makers use to keep track of different features and options that can be added to a car. It's like a special label that tells you what extras are included with the vehicle.
RPO stands for Regular Production Option, which is a code used by manufacturers like Chevrolet to identify specific features or options available on a vehicle. These codes help in tracking the production and customization of cars.
deferred maintenance
"...reasonable cost per year of deferred maintenance on this car and it's the it's the only way to justify..."
Deferred maintenance is when you put off fixing things on your car because it's too expensive or you don't have time. This can cause bigger problems later on.
Deferred maintenance refers to the practice of postponing necessary repairs or maintenance on a vehicle, often due to cost concerns. This can lead to more significant issues and expenses down the line if not addressed timely.
MagnaFlow exhaust
"...you got somewhat uh magnet flow exhaust on it with uh that's exactly what I have and I wanted I wanted an exhaust on this car that could give you the..."
MagnaFlow exhausts are aftermarket parts that can make your car sound louder and more powerful. They help the engine breathe better, which can improve performance.
MagnaFlow is a brand known for its high-performance exhaust systems that enhance the sound and performance of vehicles. Their exhausts are designed to provide a deep, throaty sound while also improving exhaust flow.
gas filler cap
"...the gas filler cap is hidden behind the driver's side tail light am I right or wrong that is correct..."
The gas filler cap is the part that covers the hole where you put gas into the car. Some cars have it in clever places, like behind the tail light, to make them look nicer.
The gas filler cap is the cover that protects the opening where fuel is added to a vehicle's gas tank. Some cars have unique designs, such as hidden caps, which can enhance the vehicle's aesthetics.
Chevrolet Tri-Five
"...part of the tri-five the 55, 56, 57 which is the second generation of these things and they're just absolutely iconic in America..."
The Chevrolet Tri-Five is a nickname for a group of classic cars made by Chevrolet in the mid-1950s. They are well-loved for their unique designs and are often restored and collected today.
The Chevrolet Tri-Five refers to a series of cars produced by Chevrolet from 1955 to 1957, which includes the popular Bel Air, 210, and 150 models. These cars are iconic for their distinctive styling and have a strong following among classic car enthusiasts.
Oldsmobile Cutlass
"...I have a an 84 Ozenbill wagon and you know it's what a $4,500 car all day long but the memories of having the kids in the rear mounted rear facing seat that faces backwards..."
The 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is a car from the 1980s that many families used. It had a comfortable ride and sometimes had seats that faced backwards, which was fun for kids.
The 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass is a mid-size car that was popular in the 1980s. Known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, it often featured rear-facing seats, making it a family-friendly option.
project car
"...the condition of this car when we started this project..."
A 'project car' is a car that someone is working on to fix it up or change it. It usually needs a lot of work and can be a fun challenge for car lovers.
A 'project car' is a vehicle that an owner intends to restore or customize over time. These cars often require significant work and investment, and they can be a labor of love for automotive enthusiasts.
garage queen
"...and um uh you know just you know obviously I'm sure it's garage kept at this point right..."
A 'garage queen' is a car that is kept in really good shape and isn't driven much. People usually keep these cars safe in a garage so they don't get damaged.
A 'garage queen' refers to a car that is kept in pristine condition and rarely driven, often stored in a garage to avoid wear and tear. Owners typically cherish these vehicles and may only take them out for special occasions or shows.
Lamborghini
"you're parking next to you know a Lamborghini and some kind of high-end bends and then you know here's"
Lamborghini is a famous brand that makes very expensive and fast sports cars, often seen as symbols of wealth and luxury.
Lamborghini is an Italian luxury sports car manufacturer known for its high-performance vehicles and distinctive designs.
Mercedes-Benz
"...next to you know a Lamborghini and some kind of high-end bends and then you know here's this little four-door family car..."
Mercedes-Benz is a well-known car brand that makes luxury vehicles, often associated with comfort and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks, recognized for their quality and performance.
cars and coffee
"...have you taken out to any like cars and coffee or car shows in the area..."
Cars and Coffee is an event where people bring their cars to show off and chat with other car lovers while enjoying coffee.
Cars and Coffee is a casual gathering of car enthusiasts where they meet to showcase their vehicles, share stories, and enjoy coffee together.
cruise night
"...Auburn has a quite extensive cruise night and I take it out there..."
Cruise night is when car fans meet up to drive around and show off their cars, usually in a specific location.
Cruise night refers to an event where car enthusiasts gather to drive their vehicles in a designated area, often showcasing classic or modified cars.
tri-five show
"...I went to a tri-five show that happened in San Jose and drove it all the way..."
A tri-five show is a car event that focuses on classic Chevrolet cars made in the mid-1950s, which are very popular among car enthusiasts.
A tri-five show is a car show featuring Chevrolet vehicles produced between 1955 and 1957, known for their classic design and popularity among collectors.
Buick Skylark
"...iver's test what car did you there you go wow 76 skylark wow and did where airplanes doing touch and goes ..."
The Buick Skylark is a car that was made for many years, and the 1976 version is known for being comfortable and easy to drive. It's a classic car that people like because it combines a nice look with a smooth ride.
The Buick Skylark is a mid-size car that was produced by Buick from 1953 to 1998, with the 1976 model being part of the final generation known for its comfortable ride and classic styling. The Skylark is significant as it represents the transition of American cars towards more fuel-efficient designs in the mid-1970s. It is often discussed for its blend of performance and comfort, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Chevrolet C10
"...c transmission and so he had kept his 1965 Chevy C10 oh yeah and I started driving that when I was 13..."
The Chevrolet C10 is an old pickup truck that many people love because it's tough and can be used for different purposes. The 1965 model is especially popular, and lots of people enjoy fixing them up or just driving them around because they remind them of simpler times.
The Chevrolet C10 is a classic pickup truck that was produced from 1960 to 1998, with the 1965 model being particularly popular among enthusiasts. Its significance lies in its robust design and versatility, making it a favorite for both work and restoration projects. The C10 is often discussed for its nostalgic value and the strong community of collectors and restorers.
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