world’s largest manufacturer of 1955-56-57 chevrolet ...news letters\news-19.2-headli… · phone...

$: World’s largest Manufacturer of 1955-56-57 chevrolet ...News Letters\News-19.2-Headli… · Phone : 00 64-472 • 1 i World’s largest Manufacturer of 1955-56-57 chevrolet restoration$
Phone : (800) 648-4728 • www.danchuk.com 1

InstallWorld’s largest Manufacturer of 1955-56-57 chevrolet restoration Parts

5-6-7UpdatesPring 2013

Volume 19, Issue 2 • Danchuk 3201 s. stanDarD aVe., santa ana, ca 92705

general Manager’sSpring, finally!!! It’s been an absolutely brutal season with storms and such and we are thrilled that the country is starting to thaw out. We’ve expanded this Update to 24 pages to celebrate the weather and start of the show season.

Thanks to our customer requests we have installed a headliner in one of our cars and documented the whole thing in the form of an install article and put everything needed on sale in case you want to do one yourself.

Also, since the weather is going to start getting real hot soon we thought we would discount all our Vintage Air A/C units, US Radiator cooling products and related parts to help you keep you and your ride cool. And since you really want to show off that beautiful car of yours we’ve went “Billet Crazy” and slashed prices on all of our Eddie Motorsports products. We’ve had nothing but compliments on Eddie’s beautiful parts so we hope you take advantage of the sale and score them at the lowest prices of the year.

Not to stop there we are highlighting our newest “Made in the USA” ’56 side mouldings at a discount. This is the most correct and spectacular side stainless since it was brand new from GM. And, who wants to spend hours and hours driving their beautiful cars to all those shows without some cool classic tunes? We’ve filled two full pages with our premier classic stereo supplier’s products, Custom Autosound. You really couldn’t have picked a better time to upgrade your system since the latest USA-630 model on page 14 has some great upgraded features and the brand new speaker systems on page 15 are awesome.

And, last but certainly not least we are having a spring “Blem” sale on page 11 starting May 15th. If you have a part on the list that doesn’t have to be dead perfect you will love our Blems.

Happy Restoring,

in this issue: • headliner install • Parts sPecIals • BarrIs car Feature • shoW traIler scheDule Install a Headliner

let Danchuk shoW YouhoW-to

A while back we asked our customers for some ideas we could use for Tech Articles promising a free tee to anyone who gave us an idea that we used. Well, congratula-tions to Mike Swon of Darien, IL and William Mitchell of Swansea, MA for your ideas of an article covering tack strips and a headliner. In fact, the idea was so good we pitched it to Super Chevy for the magazine. They liked it so much they sent Calin Head over to the shop in California, shot photos of the install and published it. Our thanks to Calin for the lesson and to the Editors of Super Chevy for allowing us to reprint the article.

Look Up and Be ProudStep-by-Step instructions for all you DIY types on hanging a new headliner into a Bel AirBy Calin Head * Photography by Author

One of the more common tech questions Dan-chuk Manufacturing gets is how to properly install a new headliner. While this task has usually been left to professional trim shops the hardcore DIY guys will still try it at home.

About halfway through the job the tech lines blow up with questions about how to get all the wrinkles out. Before this author worked here at the maga-zine I spent almost 10 years at a custom upholstery shop. My intent with this story is to show you the steps necessary to get your headliner install to look right. Hopefully I have broken it down into simple steps that won’t require any real expensive tools, like steamers. You will however, need a heat gun to relax the material, but if you don’t have one of these you could always use a hair dryer. You will also need a few screwdrivers, a couple clamps, scissors or razor blade, an awl, some sort of staple gun (air or manual), and if you are replacing the tack strip like we are a drill, 1/8” drill bit, pop rivet gun and pop rivets. One thing to note is the new headliner is sewn together with a polyester thread that will out last cotton threads used back in the day. We also picked up a pre-sewn set of sun visors, so we won’t need a sewing machine.For the installation we went straight to the Danchuk facility where I worked with Mike

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llMorgan. The Danchuk facility is definitely not an upholstery type shop so we were working in conditions most of you at home guys would be. The car has been completely stripped so we had to replace everything from the tack strip to the bows along with the headliner itself. If the vehicle you are working on still has a headliner in it then your job will be a bit easier. So lean back on your toolbox and read on and hopefully this story will help you get the results you want.

1.) The photo on the cover is everything needed to install a headliner into a ’56 Bel Air that has been stripped down to bare bones. The headliner has the proper perforation and color for the car, as do the visors. The long pieces of metal at the bottom are the bows and as you can see they are all dif-ferent sizes. Not to worry they are marked so it’s pretty simple to find out where each one goes. Lastly are the black rolls of tack strip that fit into specific sized slots around the perimeter of the roof panel and give a place to affix the headliner material.

2.) The first step in the process will be to dry fit all the bows. Since they are numbered we knew where to put them, but there still is something to note. The mounting points for the bows have two mounting holes/positions. Since we don’t have any stock bows from the car we had to determine which hole, top or bottom would be the correct one.

3.) We recommend going with the top hole first to get the most headroom possible. What you want to look for is the following. Does

the bow engage the notch at the top of the mounting tab, which keeps it from flopping front to back, and does it still look straight? If the bow looks distorted instead of having its natural shape you will have to drop down to the lower hole.

4.) There are two special bows in the ’56 headliner set, the middle and the front. The middle one is much thinner and is held in place by a bunch of sharp little tangs that are punched into the center support brace in the middle of the roof.

5.) The front one has these little brass grom-mets that go along with it. The grommets are a must as they keep the end of the bow from going too deep into the mounting point. The grommets are included in the bow kit.

6.) With the bows squared away we now needed to install the tack strip. The kit from Danchuk comes like this, all separately rolled and marked by length. We will be using the 4 rolled up sections for this job. The two short sets are used for the pinch

welt that runs along the front edge of the rear interior panel. Just for clarification the 63’s go along the sides, the 60 goes along the rear window and the 50 is for the front.

7.) The two 63-inch pieces run above the side window opening. They fit into a channel and are held in place by these tabs.

8.) The front and rear window pieces were held on at the factory with heavy metal staples. Well, we don’t have that tool so we will be using pop rivets instead. Before we can install the new tack strip all the old staples need to be removed.

9.) Mike drills 1/8-inch holes about 3 inches apart.

10.) And then locks the tack strip down with large headed pop rivets as pictured on top of next page.


Install

11.) Now that the car is ready to accept the new headliner the bows were taken from the car one by one and slipped into the listing of the headliner. The headliner we are using wasn’t marked front to rear so we had to kind of figure that out on our own. What we found was the front edge has the shorter section of material as opposed to the rear that had a much longer piece. Basically the front bow is much closer to the windshield than the rear bow is to the back glass.

12.) With all the bows carefully slipped in place the headliner was taken to the car. The center bow as mentioned earlier is held in by little metal tangs. The tangs pierce the listing and are then bent up holding it in place. Make sure to get the tang to pop through the very top of the listing as close to the bow as possible like you see here. Since the tangs prevent the headliner from being stretched side-to-side you will need to do it as you go. Punch the center ones through the listing then stretch the headliner to the side before sticking the next one through.

13.) Now you can install all the other bows. The listings will be a little longer than the bows so for now just bunch up the headliner to get the bows in.

14.) With all the bows in we use a few little clamps to hold the front and back edges up. What we have at this point is a very wrinkled headliner at the edges but the center should already start to look smooth.

15.) Now we need to carefully cut the listings back so the material can be pulled down. Get in there with your scissors and trim the listing just enough to let you stretch out the wrinkles. The bend in the bows is what creates the smooth arch on the sides of the headliner and the listing is what holds the headliner to the bow so trim a little at a time until its smooth. Trim too much and you will loose that nice arch and end up with a sharp angle.

16.) Once you have all the listings trimmed make a cut on each side of the sewn line. We will come back to this in a second.

17.) Now that the sides are somewhat smooth its time to apply a little heat with a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the material so you can put a good stretch on the headliner front to back. Use just a few staples to hold the material for now since you may have to come back and pull this more, but the idea is to get the center of the headliner nice and smooth from front to rear.

18.) Now we can finish off the sides. You want to pull on the seams like this till the sides look nice and smooth. If the sides are pulled just right, there will be no need to pull in between the seams. If you pull down on the center areas it will create a drooping between each seam. We like it smooth, but some like the slight drooping effect that pulling the center down provides, as long as there are no wrinkles either way will look good.

19.) Pop two staples right on the seam to hold the stretch and continue the process on the other bows.

4 Newsletter 19.2

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20.) With all the bows now smoothed out turn to the front and rear window areas. If you stretched the headliner front to back enough then all you need to do is work out from the center towards the sides. If you have wrinkles that just won’t work out you may need to pull the front to back a little more.

21.) When you get to the corners you will want to pull the material back and down as you pop staples in the tack strip.

22.) That should complete the pulling and stapling portion of the job. Now its time install a few other parts. With a clean finger start

pushing in on the material around where the dome light is. You will eventually locate the center hole and then see the three tangs that hold the dome light assembly in place.

23.) Now carefully cut an X in the headliner so you can fish out the wires. Also cut small holes so the tangs can protrude.

24.) Then plug in the light and slip it up into place. Use a set of pliers to put a slight twist on the tang locking the dome light in place.

25.) You can use the same poke, cut, and install procedure for the sun visors as well. That’s all there is to it!

If everything was done accordingly the headliner should look like this. There are still a few minor little wrinkles mainly from the headliner being folded up in a box. Those will relax over time. We hope this story gave you enough information to at least decide if this is a job for you. All we can say is make sure to use quality products like the ones from Danchuk, make any cuts a little at a time, and use the staples sparingly till the headliner is smooth, then come back and put in as many as you like.

ordering interior headliners*

Get 10% off any Interior Headliner order. If you don’t have our catalog, call and we will ship one out to you to choose your color and application from the Interior section of our print-ed catalog. Or go to our website, www.danchuk.com, and click the “Interior Trim and Upholstery” listing in the menu on the left.

Interior Headliners are special or-der items that require 2-3 weeks for delivery. Headliners are shipped to you directly from our vendor, and may be subject to a restocking fee if returned. Returns accepted only if returned exactly as shipped. Please confirm application with Danchuk before placing order to avoid order-ing incorrect item. 10% discount will be taken when placing order by phone. If placing an order on the website, the 10% discount will not be reflected at checkout, but will be invoiced with the correct price when we place your special order with the vendor. 10% discount valid on Inte-rior Headliner order until July 20th.


Install

heaDlIner BoWsReady to install your headliner? Make sure you have all the parts with this bow set that helps you to do the job right. 1955 2-Door Hardtop, 3-Piece Set ......................................................... #15550 .............................. $84.95 ...................$74.95/set 1956-57 2-Door Sedan, 7-Piece Set ....................................................... #15552 .............................. $164.95 ...............$148.95/set 1956-57 2-Door Hardtop, 7-Piece Set..................................................... #15551 .............................. $164.95 ...............$148.95/set

staInless heaDlIner BoWsReproductions of original except now made in high quality stainless steel and come in a set of 3. These were an original item in all 1955 Bel Air hardtops, but may be added to any 1955-57 2-Door hardtop if a 1955 style headliner is used. 1955 Bel Air 2-Door Hardtop .................................................................. #16472 .............................. $459.95 ............. $409.95/set

staInless nomaD heaDlIner BoWsReproductions of original manufactured to original factory specifications in high quality stainless steel and comes in a set of 7. 1955-57 .................................................................................................... #16474 .............................. $919.95 ..............$829.95/set

tack strIP sets1955-57 2-Door Hardtop..............#11309 .. $57.95 .......$51.95/set 1955-57 Nomad..............#11310 .. $69.95 ..... $62.95/set 1955 2-Door Sedan..............#11311 .. $48.95 .......$41.95/set1956-57 2-Door Sedan..............#11312 .. $36.95 ..... $29.95/set1955 4-Door Sedan..............#11313 .. $33.95 ..... $29.95/set1956-57 4-Door Sedan..............#11314 .. $21.95 .......$18.95/set1955-57 2-Door Wagon..............#11315 .. $59.95 ..... $53.95/ea.1955-57 4-Door Wagon..............#11316 .. $48.95 .....$44.95/ea.1955-57 Sedan Delivery..............#11317 .. $78.95 .......$71.95/ea.

Dome lens Bezel Beautifully plated in brilliant chrome, this bezel uses a #212 lens, below. One bezel required per car. 1955-57 Sedan and Wagon,

’56-57 Hardtop #212A ........................ $13.95 ......$12.50/ea.

doMe lensThe heat of the dome light will yellow almost any plastic, and eventually wears the old lens out. The ideal solution is this dome lens, cor-rectly reproduced to fit all sedans, wagons and 1956-57 hardtops. 1955-57 #212 ...... $11.95 ......$10.50/ea.

doMe light housingUsed with lens #212 and bezel #212A.1955-60 Sedan & Wagon,

1956-57 Hardtop ..........#12525 .. $28.95 ..... $24.95/set

#16474

Save 10% on All Interior Headliners!call or check catalog/WeBsIte For InterIor heaDlIner Part numBers anD DecrIPtIons*

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sale Prices good throughJulY 20th, 2013

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chroMe dash air conditioning vent assemBlIesThese beautiful dash vent assemblies are just what you need to make your AC installation look factory and they are designed to work with a 2.5" hose which is standard in Vintage Air kits. Not exactly like original, these require a smaller hole to be cut in the dash than stock. Danchuk #16203 are Die-Cast and chrome plated and they will work in any model 1955-57 classic Chevy running a Vintage Air or similar aftermarket air conditioning kit.1955-57 ........................................................#16203 ...... $189.95 ............$169.95/pr.

uPholstered sunvisors This is the genuine article for hardtops and convertibles, with faithful reproductions of texture, pattern, and color. Constructed with hardboard cores, steel spindles, and high quality vinyl. Excellent replacements for sedan models.1955-57 exc. Convertible, Fiberboard w/Rod......................................................................#1393 ........ $25.95 ................$22.95/ea.1955-57 Conv, Fiberboard w/Rod ...............#1394 ........ $36.95 ................$32.95/ea.1955-57 exc. Conv., Black Naugahyde Replacement ........................................................................#1410......... $134.95 .............$119.95/pr.1955-57 Conv., Black Naugahyde Replacement......................................................................#1418 ........ $109.95 ..............$99.95/pr.

2-Door Hardtop:1955 Beige ......... #1411 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Blue ........... #1412 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Beige ......... #1413 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Red ............ #1414 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Green ........ #1415 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Turq. ........... #1416 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Silver ......... #1417 ........$129.95/pr.

Convertible:1955-56 Blue ...... #1420 ........$129.95/pr.1955-56 Red ....... #1421 ........$129.95/pr.1955-56 Green ... #1422 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Turq. ........... #1426 ........$129.95/pr.1957 Silver ......... #1427 ........$129.95/pr.

sunvisor suPPortBracketsAfter 50 years, most sunvisor support brackets have taken quite a beating. Our sunvisor support brackets allow you to roll back the years with their precision detail and durable chrome plating. Mounting hardware is included with brackets.1955-60 Best, exc. Convertible..............#1052 .... $37.95 .....$33.95/pr.1955-60 Good, exc. Convertible..............#16801 .. $27.95 .....$24.95/pr.1955-57 Convertible Sunvisor Hooks..............#290 ...... $28.95 .....$25.95/pr.

chroMe sunvisor triM1955-57 Sedan, Convertible..............#11242 .. $14.95 ......$13.50/set

#1417

#1412

#1415

Sale Price$116.95/ea.

Sale Price$116.95/ea.

FactorY a/c Dash VentsThese are reproductions of the original fac-tory air conditioning dash vents. Each year had its own unique design. Made for those looking to replace missing originals or to add a rare option to your classic Chevy's dash. 1955 ......#13250 .. $299.95.......................................... $269.95/pr.1956 ......#13251 .. $299.95.......................................... $269.95/pr.1957 (Shown)..............#13252 .. $299.95.......................................... $269.95/pr.

More Great Prices for Your New Install!

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Part Specials

air conditioning condensersFor use with Crossflow radiators.1955-57 Unpolished, w/ All Lines ..............#12169 ...... $364.95 ...........$329.95/ea.

coMPlete 134a air conditioning unitsDesigned specifically for your classic Chevy. System attaches to existing holes in dash and firewall without drilling. These kits now use the fully electronic GEN IV Sure Fit System, which features an electronic conversion for stock heater control levers which eliminates all control cables. Separate heating and cooling coils and SPAL permanent magnet blower motor gives you maximum capacity and performance. To order, call our customer service department with your application. Ask your customer service rep for more information. These kits come in 3 box sets, and 2 of the 3 boxes need to be shipped oversized which incurs an extra shipping charge.1955-56 .................................................................................................... #2437 ................................ $1369.95 .......... $1225.95/kit1957 ......................................................................................................... #2439 ................................ $1389.95 .......... $1225.95/kitNote: The 55 with original 265 V8 with oil filter option requires a special order kit.

a/c clutchcoMPressor coversDress up your Sanden 508 A/C Compressor with this aluminum clutch cover, hardware included. All Chrome, SD508..............#16542 .. $69.95 .....$63.95/ea.All Polished, SD508..............#16543 .. $65.95 ..... $59.95/ea. All Machined, SD508..............#16544 .. $59.95 ..... $54.95/ea.

Keep Your Cool with these Great Part Specials!

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eDDIe motorsPorts custom color BIllet hooD hIngesMade the same as their polished and machine finished hinges, these can be ordered powder coated in the following colors; blue, black, orange, yellow, red, white or in clear anodized. These are a special order item. Please call our customer service department to order. Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. 1955-56 Custom Colors .......................................................................... #16246 .............................. $699.95 ............. $649.95/pr.1957 Custom Colors ............................................................................... #16249 .............................. $699.95 ............. $649.95/pr.

eDDIe motorsPorts BIllet hooD hIngesThese billet hood hinges by Eddie Motorsports are exactly what you need to finish off the engine compartment of your classic. CNC machined from 6061-T6 billet they utilize a sealed bearing for ultra smooth operation and a stainless steel gas spring to complete the look. 1955-56 Machine Finish .......................................................................... #16244 .............................. $599.95 ..............$549.95/pr.1955-56 Polished Finish ......................................................................... #16245 .............................. $649.95 ..............$599.95/pr.1957 Machine FInish ............................................................................... #16247 .............................. $599.95 ..............$549.95/pr.1957 Polished FInish .............................................................................. #16248 .............................. $649.95 ..............$599.95/pr.

#16247

#16245

eDDIe motorsPorts custom color trunk hIngesMade the same as their polished and machine finished hinges, these can be ordered powder coated in the following colors; blue, black, orange, yellow, red, white or in clear anodized. These are a special order item. Please call our customer service department to order. Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. 1955-57 Hardtop & Conv. ........................................................................ #16500 .............................. $374.95 ..............$339.95/ea.1955-57 Sedan ......................................................................................... #16501 .............................. $374.95 ..............$339.95/ea.

eDDIe motorsPorts BIllet trunk hIngesPhotos and description on page 94 of Interior section.1955-57 Satin, Hardtop & Convertible ................................................... #16496 .............................. $319.95 ..............$289.95/pr.1955-57 Polished, Hardtop & Convertible ............................................. #16497 .............................. $349.95 ...............$319.95/pr.1955-57 Satin, Sedan .............................................................................. #16498 .............................. $319.95 ..............$289.95/pr.1955-57 Polished, Sedan ........................................................................ #16499 .............................. $349.95 ...............$319.95/pr.

Best-Selling Eddie MotorSports on Special!

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Part Specials

eDDIe motorsPort BIllet hooD BracesThese billet aluminum hood braces replace the stamped steel baffle and include stainless hardware.1955 Machined Finish ............................................................................. #16632 ............................. $149.95 ...............$134.95/ea.1956 Machined Finish ............................................................................. #16633 .............................. $149.95 ...............$134.95/ea.1957 Machined Finish ............................................................................. #16634 .............................. $149.95 ...............$134.95/ea.1955 Polished Finish .............................................................................. #16635 .............................. $189.95 ...............$174.95/ea.1956 Polished Finish .............................................................................. #16636 .............................. $189.95 ...............$174.95/ea.1957 Polished Finish .............................................................................. #16637 .............................. $189.95 ...............$174.95/ea.

eDDIe motorsPort hooD Brace suPPortsThese billet brace supports give you that finishing touch to your engine compartment to an area that is usually overlooked. Available in either machined satin or brightly polished. Designed for use with EMS Billet hood braces. 1955 Machined ........................................................................................ #16663 .............................. $109.95 ................ $99.95/pr.1955 Polished .......................................................................................... #16664 .............................. $119.95 ...............$107.95/pr. 1956 Machined ........................................................................................ #16665 .............................. $109.95 ................ $99.95/pr. 1956 Polished .......................................................................................... #16666 .............................. $119.95 ...............$107.95/pr. 1957 Machined ........................................................................................ #16667 .............................. $109.95 ................ $99.95/pr. 1957 Polished .......................................................................................... #16668 .............................. $119.95 ...............$107.95/pr.

#16632

#16633

#16636

#16663

#16668

hood latch Plate & suPPort This beautifully crafted latch plate and support match the EMS hood braces and supports, but is a stand out on its own. Available in either machined satin finish or highly polished, either way it is sure to add that custom touch under the hood of you classic. 1955 Machined Billet .............................................................................. #16669 .............................. $129.95 .................$117.95/set1955 Polished Billet ................................................................................ #16670 .............................. $144.95 ............... $129.95/set 1956 Machined Billet .............................................................................. #16671 .............................. $129.95 .................$117.95/set 1956 Polished Billet ................................................................................ #16672 .............................. $144.95 ............... $129.95/set 1957 Machined Billet .............................................................................. #16673 .............................. $144.95 ............... $129.95/set1957 Polished Billet ................................................................................ #16674 .............................. $159.95 ...............$144.95/set

#16669 #16670

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s-driveserPentIne PulleY sYstemsS-Drive pulley systems offer the latest in serpentine drive systems. They feature all new components and Made in the USA billet pulleys and brackets. Components included are: Sanden SD7 compressor, Type 2 P/S pump w/reservoir (remote on LS models), alternator and water pump. LS versions include an ATI damper. All components are matched to take the guesswork out of get-ting the right parts. Available in either machined satin finish or highly polished. Polished versions include a polished compressor, alternator and water pump. Non-power steering versions and custom colors are available by Special Order.

All Polished, BB ..........................................#16659 ...... $2,195 ..................$1995/kitAll Machined, BB ........................................#16660 ...... $2,095 ..................$1895/kitAll Polished, SB ..........................................#16661 ...... $2,125 ..................$1995/kitAll Machined, SB.........................................#16662 ...... $1,900 ............... $1700/kitAll Machined, L/S ........................................#16676 ...... $2,395 ................. $2195/kitAll Polished, L/S ..........................................#16677 ...... $2,495 ................ $2295/kit

eDDIe motorsPorts BIllet sIll PlatesThese beautiful billet sill plates are a direct replacement for the originals on all 2-door models. Mounting screws included.1955-57 Machined, 2-Door ..................................................................... #16816 .............................. $249.95 ............. $229.95/pr. 1955-57 Polished, 2-Door ....................................................................... #16817 .............................. $274.95 ............. $249.95/pr.

PolIsheD, BIlletFIre extInguIsher BracketsThe ULTIMATE extinguisher bracket! These brackets are CNC machined out of 6061-T6 billet aluminum and are beautifully polished to really set off your interior. These will work for any model 1955-1957 classic Chevy as well as other vehicles you may have in your collection. 1955-57 1-lb. Polished..............#16252 .. $84.95 ...... $77.95/ea.1955-57 2.5-lb. Polished..............#16253 .. $89.95 ...... $81.95/ea.

Made the same as their polished and machine finished hinges, these can be ordered powder coated in the following colors; blue, black, orange, yellow, red, white or in clear anodized. These are a special order item. Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. 1955-57 CUSTOM COLOR, Hardtop & Convertible ............................... #16500 .............................. $374.95 ..............$339.95/ea. 1955-57 CUSTOM COLOR, Sedan .......................................................... #16501 .............................. $374.95 ..............$339.95/ea.

eDDIe motorsPorts BIllet trunk hIngesThese billet trunk hinges match the Eddie Motorsports hood hinges and add a custom touch to an often-overlooked area. Billet hinges replace the stock torsion bar with a modern gas spring mounted on each hinge for smooth operation. Complete with mounting hardware and instruc-tions. For convertible applications just switch the hinges and mount the gas spring to the wheel well.1955-57 Satin, Hardtop & Convertible ................................................... #16496 .............................. $319.95 ..............$289.95/pr. 1955-57 Polished, Hardtop & Convertible ............................................. #16497 .............................. $349.95 ...............$319.95/pr. 1955-57 Satin, Sedan .............................................................................. #16498 .............................. $319.95 ..............$289.95/pr. 1955-57 Polished, Sedan ........................................................................ #16499 .............................. $349.95 ...............$319.95/pr.

Spring Blem Sale May 15th!!Sale

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Part SpecialsBECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF THIS SALE, IT’S VERy IMPORTANT TO READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE PLACING yOUR ORDER.

1. NO orders will be taken before May 15th @ 7:00am PST.

2. All orders will be taken and shipped from our California facility only.

3. Because of the volume of orders being placed during the sale, we cannot hand pick blemished parts.

4. All returns must be made within 10 days of receipt of order.

5. No exchanges may be made for the same type blem part. However, you can exchange for a credit toward a first quality part.

6. Returns can only be credited towards your next order.

7. Blem parts will not be available via the internet. No parts ordered at www. danchuk.com will be considered Blems.

8. All sales are final on blemished parts after the 10 days.

9. Because these parts are slightly blemished, we can not guarantee quality.

10. Sale is limited to stock on hand. No special orders or back orders will be taken.

11. Sorry, this sale is not available to dealers or jobbers. End users only.

12. Due to the drastic discounts, we must institute these strict terms and conditions. Most of these terms do not apply to our first-quality parts.

13. Due to the nature of this sale and the limited stock, we must restrict purchases of blems to one of each part per person, unless your car requires a pair.

14. Other parts may be available as Blems, but because quantities are too few to advertise, they are not listed. you are welcomed to ask for a Blem on any part.

15. Danchuk Mfg. is not responsible for any shipping charges incurred.

Spring Blem Sale May 15th!!starts at 7:00 am P.s.t. sharP!

Blem Sale!

B153 1955 Taillight Bezels .......................................................... $95.95 .......$65.00/pr.B189 1957 License Plate Frame, Bel Air, Gold ........................... $74.95 ......$43.00/ea.B208 1955 Wiper Escutcheons (150) ......................................... $46.95 ......$29.00/setB210A 55-57 Windshield Wiper Escutcheons (exc. 55-150) ........... $49.95 ...... $31.00/setB212A 55-57 Large Dome Lens Bezel (Sedan, Wgn, & 56-57 HT) $13.95 ........$9.00/ea.B217 1957 Dash Trim (B/A) ........................................................ $169.95 ..$100.00/setB217A 1955 Dash Trim (B/A) ........................................................ $169.95 ..$100.00/setB217B 1956 Dash Trim (B/A) ........................................................ $169.95 ..$100.00/setB217D 1956 Dash Trim, no holes .................................................. $169.95 ..$100.00/setB297 1957 Wheel Spinner Emblems Only .................................. $49.95 ......$32.00/setB298B 55-56 Clock Face Standard and Automatic, 1958-62 Vette . $17.95 ....... $11.00/ea.B302 55-57 Antenna Base & Gasket ........................................... $23.95 ......$15.00/ea.B363 55-57 Inside Rear View Mirror ............................................ $29.95 ......$18.00/ea.B365 55-57 Bel Air Crests - Gold ................................................. $52.95 ......$33.00/pr.B371 1955 Hood Emblem With Bezel ......................................... $69.95 ......$42.00/ea.B372 1955 Hood & Trunk Emblem (& 56-58 6 Cyl Trunk) ........... $34.95 ...... $21.00/ea.B373 1956 Hood Emblem, Plastic (V8) ...................................... $28.95 ......$18.00/ea.B374 1956 Trunk Emblem, V8 .................................................... $28.95 ......$18.00/ea.B374A 1956 Trunk Emblem With Bezel (V8) ................................. $54.95 ......$33.00/ea.B377 1957 Grille Bar Emblem .................................................... $32.95 ......$20.00/ea.B382 1957 Fuel Injection Script .................................................. $51.95 ....... $31.00/ea.B469 1957 Hood Rockets ........................................................... $94.95 .......$75.00/pr.B472 1955 Hood Bird .................................................................. $159.95 ....$90.00/ea.B474 1957 Hood Bar .................................................................. $209.95 ..$125.00/ea.B478 1955 Grille ......................................................................... $274.95 ..$164.00/ea.B479 1956 Grille, Chrome .......................................................... $319.95 ..$205.00/ea.B530B 1957 Fender Louvers, Bel Air, Chrome, Custom ............... $58.95 ......$42.00/setB533 1955 Parklight Housings .................................................... $159.95 ...$102.00/pr.B537C 1957 Rocker Panel Mouldings w/o Clips ........................... $179.95 ...$108.00/pr.B539 1957 Bel Air Scripts, Gold .................................................. $64.95 .......$42.00/pr.B541 1957 Chevrolet Script, V8 Bel Air Die Cast, Gold .............. $29.95 ......$18.00/ea.B573 1957 Aluminum Side Panel Inserts, B/A 2-Door Hardtop,Sedan, Conv., Nom. .................................................................................. $599.95 ...$425.00/pr.B575 55-57 Sill Plate (2-Door) ..................................................... $59.95 .......$36.00/pr.B590A 1957 Front Vee (V8), Hood 210, Chrome ........................... $94.95 ...... $61.00/ea.B591 1957 Rear Vee (V8), Nomad & Continental Kit, Gold ........ $34.95 ......$22.00/ea.B591A 1958 Rear Vee (V8) Continental Kit, Chrome .................... $35.95 ......$22.00/ea.B624 55-57 Window Crank Handles ............................................ $29.95 .......$19.00/pr.B626 55-56 Bel Air Dash Emblem ................................................ $13.95 ........$9.00/ea.B700 1955 Bel Air, Front Fender, Driver, Side Mouldings, All 2 & 4 Door except Nomad .................................................................................. $54.95 ......$33.00/ea.B701 1955 Bel Air, Front Fender, Psngr., Side Mouldings, All 2 & 4 Door except Nomad .................................................................................. $54.95 ......$33.00/ea.B890 1957 “57 Chevy” License Plate Frame............................... $10.95 ........ $7.00/ea.B900 55-57 Turn Signal Plastic Knob and Chrome Shaft ............. $12.95 ........$8.00/ea.B909 1957 Ignition Switch Bezel................................................. $12.95 ........$8.00/ea.B947 55-57 Seat Adjustment Knob, Chrome ............................... $12.95 ........$8.00/ea.B1042 1956 Chrome Vee, V8, Rear .............................................. $54.95 ......$33.00/ea.B1049 55-57 Inside Rear View Mirror Support (Ht & Sedan) ......... $29.95 ......$18.00/ea.B1052 55-60 Sunvisor Support Brackets, except Conv. ................. $37.95 ........$24.00/pr.B1080A 1956 Parklight Housing Assembly ..................................... $175.95 .. $110.00/setB1454 1957 Chrome Dash Bezel Set ........................................... $57.95 .......$35.00/setB1737 1957 “Chevrolet” Aluminum Script ..................................... $49.95 ......$30.00/ea.B10141 1955 Grille Moulding, Hood Bar Only ................................ $205.95 ..$128.00/ea.B10319A 55-57 Windshield Center Mldg Connector, Interior, Lower ... $13.95 ........$9.00/ea.B14204 1956 Grille Tie Bar, Chrome .............................................. $99.95 ......$60.00/ea.B14222 56-57 Headlight Retaining Ring, Stainless ......................... $19.95 ......$12.00/ea.B16030 1955 Headlight Retaining Ring, Stainless ......................... $19.95 ......$12.00/ea.

THESE PARTS AVAILABLE AS BLEMS - MARK yOUR CALENDAR, QUANTITIES ARE LIMITED!

Phone:(800) 648-4728

12 Newsletter 19.2

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1956 Side Moulding Perfection, now Made in the U.S.A.!



Part Specials

1956 side MouldingsThat’s right, two AND four door. We have completely tooled up in-house and are now making all 1956 side stainless 100% in the United States of America! The tooling was made 100% by Danchuk hands from American steel. Each moulding is created out of the best stainless steel available in the US with the most brilliant polish you could imagine. And yes, we knew there was no way we could put all of this time and effort into such a huge project and leave our four door friends out. SO we now have the most beautiful and correct side stainles for two and four door cars. Don’t spend your hard earned money on anything but the best . . . . Danchuk, “There’s no comparision”.1956 4-Door/Door, Front, Lower Driver/Upper Psngr, Hardtop ..... #17124 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Front, Upper Driver/Lower Psngr, Hardtop ..... #17125 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Rear, Driver, Hardtop ........................................ #17126 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Rear, Psngr, Hardtop ........................................ #17127 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Front, Lower Driver/Upper Passenger, Sedan #17130 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Front, Upper Driver/Lower Passenger, Sedan #17131 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Rear, Driver, Sedan ........................................... #17132 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Door, Rear, Psngr, Sedan ........................................... #17133 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Quarter Panel, Driver, Hardtop .................................. #17128 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Quarter Panel, Psngr, Hardtop .................................. #17129 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Quarter Panel, Driver, Sedan ..................................... #17134 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 4-Door/Quarter Panel, Psngr, Sedan ..................................... #17135 .........$99.95 ............ $89.95/ea.1956 2 & 4-Door/Fender, Bel Air, Spear Point, Driver & Psngr ..... #17311 .........$44.95 ............ $39.95/ea.1956 2 & 4-Door/Fender, Bel Air, Upper Psngr/Lower Driver ........ #17316 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea. 1956 2 & 4-Door/Fender, Bel Air, Lower Psngr/Upper Driver ........ #17317 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea. 1956 2-Door/Door, Bel Air, Lower Driver/Upper Psngr .................. #17312 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea.1956 2-Door/Door, Bel Air, Upper Driver/Lower Psngr .................. #17313 .........$49.95 ............$44.95/ea. 1956 2-Door/Quarter Panel, Bel Air, Driver .................................... #17314 .........$114.95 ........... $99.95/ea.1956 2-Door/Quarter Panel, Bel Air, Psngr .................................... #17315 .........$114.95 ........... $99.95/ea.

#17126-17127

#17132-17133

#17130-17131

#17124-17125

#17128-17129#17134-17135

1956 Side Moulding Perfection, now Made in the U.S.A.!

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custoM autosound usa-1 stereos Features include: AM/FM stereo, 4-way fader, digital clock, power antenna lead, separate bass & treble, fast forward & rewind, auxiliary inputs, auto-reverse cassette, best station memory, pre-set scan, 200 watts (4 x 50), digital clock, electronic tuner, 30 pre-sets, seek & scan, radio intercept, 4 channel RCA pre-outs, black or chrome face. Auxiliary connection enables satellite radio, MP3, iPod, and video.1955 w/ Black Face ..........#10830 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.1956 w/ Black Face ..........#10831 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.1957 w/ Black Face ..........#10832 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.1955 w/ Chrome Face (Shown)...........................................#10833 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.1956 w/ Chrome Face ......#10834 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.1957 w/ Chrome Face ......#10835 .......$199.95 ..........$189/ea.

Custom Autosound kits modify each radio to fit specific vehicles so the radio fits your dash right out of the box. No kits, bezels or jury rigging to get the look and fit you want for your vehicle.

custoMautosoundhidden antennaFor the best AM/FM recep-tion nothing works better than a 31" vertically mounted antenna mast. Mounts on the inside top of windshield for best performance. Not recommended for underdash mounting.1955-57 .............................#12087......... $31.95 .....$26.95/ea.

custoMautosound 6-disc cd changerEnjoy top of the line sound with this CD changer. Works with USA-630 and Secret Audio System (#10845) shown above. Control the 6-disc changer directly from the buttons on the face of the radio. Installation is easy and detailed instructions are included. 1-bit 8x times oversampling, twin digital-to-analog converter, 3 beam laser tracking, disc select up and down, track up and down, 2-way scan and shuffle, play and pause control, program repeat, anti-shock and vibration free design, designed for horizontal or vertical or 45 degree installation.1955-57 .............................#10846 .......$269.95 .........$239/ea.

custoM autosoundconcours series usa-630 stereosThe USA-630 is the pinnacle of 35 years of evolution in Custom Autosound’s quest for the perfect classic car radio. This radio has large OEM style push-buttons that give a perfect look in a classic dash. Although it looks classic it has the latest modern features. USB input on the back of the radio allows you to plug in a USB flash drive for playback of MP3/WMA song files. This jack is on an 14” extension which allows you to place it in the glove box or ash tray for easy access (no unsightly wires or plugs hanging out of the front of the radio). New iPod interface with 3.5’ docking cable. The new alpha numeric display shows the song/artist/album (id3) titles during playback of MP3/WMA and iPod files. Navigation for the iPOD includes artist/song/album/playlist all from the buttons on the radio. A great feature so you can keep the iPod hidden away in your glove box or console.With 300 watts the radio should have all the power you may need, if you want more there are four pre-outs jacks on the back of the radio for optional amplifiers. The back of the radio also has auxiliary audio input for satellite radio or any portable player you may wish to use.This Radio Features:• AM-FM Stereo• RDS tuner shows station / song / artist on LCD display• 300 Watts (75w x 4)• USB Port for Flash Memory MP3/WMA Playback• iPod doc and control (Control your iPod from the buttons on the radio)• Direct 6 CD Changer Control• Negative LCD Display (Black background with white letters / numbers)• Alpha Numeric id3 Display for MP3/WMA files• Electronic Tuning and Volume Control• Loudness Compensation• Digital EQ• 4-Way Fader• Left Right Balance• Digital Clock• 2-Channel RCA Auxiliary Input for Satellite / Phone• 12 Pre-sets (12FM-4AM)• 4 Channel RCA Pre-outs• Separate Bass and Treble• USA/Euro Tuner• Power Antenna Lead1955 ...................................#15230.......$239.95 .........$229/ea.1955 + CD Changer ..........#15230C ....$479.95 .........$449/ea.1956 ...................................#15231.......$239.95 .........$229/ea.1956 + CD Changer ..........#15231C ....$479.95 .........$449/ea.1957 ...................................#15232.......$239.95 .........$229/ea.1957 + CD Changer ..........#15232C ....$479.95 .........$449/ea.

Best-Selling Custom AutoSound on Special!

New Features

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Sale Salesale Prices good through

JulY 20th, 2013


Part Specials

kIck Panel sPeakersWant more sound without cutting or drilling? These "kicks" sound great, enhance interior appearance and affords a "no modifica-tion" fit. Made of black ABS plastic and can be painted to match your interior. 1955-56 100 Watt ..............#10172 .......$135.95 .....$119.95/pr.1957 100 Watt ..................#10174 .......$135.95 .....$119.95/pr.1955-56 Pioneer, 120 Watt #10175 .......$194.95 ....$174.95/pr.1957 Pioneer, 120 Watt .....#10177 .......$194.95 ....$174.95/pr.

kIck PanelsWIthout sPeakersUse these kick panels with speakers 6 inches in diameter. 1955-56 .............................#13280.........$78.95 .....$68.95/pr.1957 ...................................#13281.........$78.95 .....$68.95/pr.

#10174

#13281

#13280

“The System” solves the age old problem of where to put speakers in classics, customs and streetrods. “The System” allows you to keep the integrity of your vehicle intact yet enjoy quality sound like many of us have in our new cars. Satellite speakers look like AC vents andcan be mounted under the dash, on the kickpanels or even the back package tray. The woofer is optimally mounted under the seat but can be mounted in the trunk if space requires it. Two Systems to choose from Amplified (System 1) and passive (no Amp) (System 3).

custoM autosoundamPlIFIeD sPeaker - sYstem 1Flat active aluminum subwoofer enclosure with 8” woofer plus 2-channel amplifier. Two 3” mid-tweeter satellite speakers in die cast metal housings. Amplifier installation kit included. Amplifier power: 150 watt subwoofer / 2x50 watt mid / tweeter. All w/ Satellite Speakers ..#17353.......$289.95 ...$279.95/ea.

custoM autosoundPassIVe sPeaker - sYstem 3Ported wood enclosure with 51⁄4” dual voice coil woofer plus two 3” mid / tweeter satellite speakers. This system connects directly to your radio, no need for an amplifier. 300 watts max power. All w/ Satellite Speakers..........#17354 ..........$169.95 ............$159.95/ea.

New System 1

NewSystem 3

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16 Newsletter 19.2

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Fan mountIng BracketsThese brackets give you the extra mount-ing surface sometimes needed when your radiator is in the 6-cylinder position and you are installing a universal electric fan with a built in shroud.1955-57 #11236A $69.95 ..... $59.95/pr.

Black PoWDer coateD & chrome steel Fan shrouDs1955-57 V8 in 6 Cyl. Core Support .............#16625 ...... $109.95 ............. $94.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in Stock Position .....................#16626A .... $109.95 ............. $94.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in Stock V8 Core Support, w/ #11236 6-Cyl. Position Conversion Brackets ................................................#16627A .... $119.95 ..............$99.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in 6 Cyl. Core Support, Chrome, Black Brackets......................................................................#16625C .... $209.95 ............$189.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in Stock Position, Chrome, Black Brackets......................................................................#16626C .... $209.95 ............$189.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in Stock V8 Core Support, w/ #11236 6-Cyl. Position Conversion Brackets, Chrome, Black Brackets .....#16627C .... $219.95 ............$194.95/ea.1955-57 Chrome Brackets ..........................#16625B .... $67.95 .................$5995/ea.1955-57 Chrome Brackets ..........................#16626B .... $67.95 ................$59.95/ea.

#16627a#16626a

steel fan shroudsThe best of the best! Due to the huge success and customer satisfaction created by our ABS shrouds we pulled out all the stops and made them the way Chevy would have. These beautiful shrouds are made from top quality thick steel, powder coated black or chrome finish and are custom fit for your application. With an 18 ¾” opening you’ll have no trouble with fan clearance. Patent pending. Made in the USA.

aDJustaBle Fan thermostatFor use with electric fans. Probe mounts in stock drain plug hole on the radiator. Adjustable temp makes sure the fan runs when needed.All .........#085 ...... $48.95 .....$43.95/ea.

aDJustaBletherMostat harnessFor use with part #085, adjustable fan thermostat.All .........#085A ... $41.95 ...... $37.95/ea.

Keep Your Cool with these Great Part Specials!

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Part Specialsu.s. raDIator DoWnFloWaluMinuM radiatorsAluminum Downflow radiators feature fully wielded construc-tion (no epoxy) and dual 1" tubes. Radiators are available in either a standard or Tripleflow configuration. Tripleflow radiators achieve the maximum temperature drop by cre-ating walls which force the coolant to pass through the core 3 times resulting in greater temperature reductions. Aluminum radiators do not have transmission coolers. An auxiliary cooler will be required so be sure to check out our transmission coolers. When mounting #13274 the hood baffle may require modification on 55-56 application. All triple flow radia-tor upper inlets are on driver side of top tank. Radiators fit both standard and automatic transmission equipped cars, and don’t forget to order a fan shroud, parts #16625-16627C or #2428 and #2537 for the best in cooling performance. Made in the USA.1955-57 V8 ......................................................#13262 .......$489.95 ...........$439.95/ea.1955-57 Triple Flow, V8 ..................................#13266 .......$559.95 ...........$499.95/ea.1955-56 V8 in 6-Cyl. Position .....................#13270 ...... $489.95 ...........$439.95/ea.1955-57 V8 in 6-Cyl. Position, Triple Flow .#13274 ....... $559.95 ...........$499.95/ea.

desert cooler radiators They drop right into your favorite tri-five and feature the lastest cooling technology. V-8 owners can choose from either standard or high-effiency styles. High efficiency models are recommended for A/C and performance applications. Each unit includes side shims, transmission line fitting, petcock and drain hose making for an easy instalation. If the radia-tor is mounted on the engine side of the core support, you have a V8 core support. If it’s on the grille side, then it’s a 6-cylinder support. Radiators fit both standard and automatic transmission equipped cars, and don’t forget to order a fan shroud, parts #16625-16627C or #2428 and #2537 for the best in cooling performance. Made in the USA.1955-57 V8, 4 Row .......................................#399 .......... $419.95 ...........$369.95/ea.1955-56 Hi-Efficiency, 3 Row, 6-Cyl. ...........#336 .......... $409.95 ........... $359.95/ea.1955-57 Hi-Efficiency, 4 Row, V8 Position .#337 .......... $479.95 ...........$439.95/ea.1955-56 Hi-Efficiency, 4 Row, V8 in 6-Cyl. Position......................................................................#12072 ...... 429.95 ............. $374.95/ea.1957 Hi-Efficiency, 4 Row, V8 in 6-Cyl. Position......................................................................#12072A .... $409.95 ...........$369.95/ea.

radiator conversionBracketsAllows you to mount a V8 position radiator into the 6-cylinder position of a V8 core support. 1955-57 #11236 .. $49.95 .....$44.95/pr.

radiator coresuPPort ruBBer cushIonsMade in the USA.1955-57 #604 ...... $12.95 ..... $10.95/pr.

raDIator Bug screenIf you show your daily driver or drive a show car daily, these bug screens are a must. Easy to install and remove.1955-57....#2871........$25.95 ....$21.95/ea.

radiator suPPortto FenDer shIm kIts1955-56 #1168 .... $9.95 ..........$8.95/ea.1957 (Shown)..............#1169 .... $11.95 ...... $10.95/ea.

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18 Newsletter 19.2

A different version of the car appeared in the winter is-sue, 1963, of Popular Customs. The car was still owned by Harry but the top had been chopped 2-1/2”, the 1955 Lincoln taillights had been replaced with Packard units and the car was painted in Candy Cherry Pearl.

We were unable to find any information on changes that may have been made to the interior of the car or any features of what was most assuredly a custom interior.

The car appeared in the following magazines. Car Craft in December 1955, Car Craft in April 1956, Trend Book 133 Custom Cars 1957 Annual, Trend Book 143 Restyle your Car (which was written by George Barris and Jim Potter), Trend Book 156 Custom Cars 1958 Annual, Trend Book 197 Custom Cars 1961 Annual and the aforementioned Popular Customs Winter Issue, 1963. It may have ap-peared in others.

We found no information as to this cars current owner, if it was still owned by Harry or if it still existed.

5-6-7’sby

Barris Kustoms struggled at first, but when George’s 1941 Buick won top

honors at the first Hot Rod Exposition show at the National Guard Armory in Los Angeles (the first of many awards their handy work would receive), Barris Kustoms was off and running. From the time it opened through the time that George (Sam left the business in 1956-57) started doing cars for television shows like the Batmobile, the Munster Coach and Drag-u-la in the early 60’s, Barris Kustoms restyled over 160 cars, many of them winning the top awards at the most prestigious auto shows around the country and all of them turning heads wherever they went.

harrY hoskIn’s1955 chevrolet 2-door hardtoPThis 1955 was restyled by Barris Kustoms for Harry Hoskin of Maricopa, California. The car has seen a few changes since it was finished, presumably in late 1955, but the original restyling by Barris went like this. The rear fenders were extended and modified with 1955 Lincoln taillights. The hood and deck were molded and the hood corners were rounded. The grille was taken from a 1956 Corvette and molded directly into the gravel pan and shell. Side trim was used from a 1955 Dodge Lancer and it was installed parallel to the dip in the side body panel at the belt line. The door handles were removed and replaced with buttons that were concealed in the side trim. The front end was lowered a little but the rear was lowered a full 5 inches. Originally the paint was a two toned pink on the top and black on the bottom separated by the Dodge stainless. Later on the car was repainted with a black top and white body.

KUSTOMSthe names george and sam Barris are synonymous with the birth of the custom car industry, as we know it today. When george and sam formed Barris kustoms back in 1946 it was obvious that these two guys were going to do something special. We wondered how many tri-5’s Barris kustoms had their hands on. We did some re-search and want to share the 7 we came up with.

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JiM seaton’s1955 chevrolet 2-door hardtoPThis 1955 was restyled by Barris Kustoms for Jim Seaton of Santa Maria, California. This radical looking cus-tom features reworked front fenders for the quad separated Lucas headlights. The front grille was removed and a new cus-tom grille was made from perforated screen with bullets installed. Stock taillights were frenched and tunneled and the lenses were modified with plastic fin additions, three red and two white frosted plastic tiers. Side trim comes from a 1955 Dodge and the car was painted white pearl with burgundy scallops. Lake pipes were installed under the rockers.

The interior appears to be upholstered in the pearl white Naugahyde that was so popular at the time (we could not con-firm this) with custom bucket seats front and rear along with front and rear center con-

soles. The front console houses a TV for the passengers in the rear and there is a telephone in the rear as well. The dash has been radical ly reworked with gauges installed in a center well and a custom dash pad was made to complement the interior. Jim also did work on the engine so the car ran as good as she looked.

The car appeared in Custom Cars in June 1959, Custom Cars in July 1959, Car Craft in October 1959 and Trend Book 197 Custom Cars 1961 Annual. The car is currently in the collection of concept car collector, Joe Bortz.

chuck Potter’s1955 chevrolet 2-door sedanThis car was actually restyled by Mersearu’s Body Shop in Lynwood for Chuck Potter of South Gate, California. It is mentioned here because Barris Kustoms built the unique square Continental Kit.

In the front Mersearu’s nosed the hood to match the 1958 Chrysler 300 grille that was mounted upside down. The front fenders were modified for the quad frenched headlights. The rear taillights were f r e n c h e d 1 9 5 6 Pa c k a r d u n i t s . And, of course, the square Continental Kit was made by Barris. It was paint-ed Indigo Blue.

We were unable to find any information on changes that may have been made to the interior of the car or any features of what was most assuredly a custom interior.

The car appeared in the following magazine, Trend Book 197 Custom Cars 1961 Annual. It may have appeared in others. We found no information as to this cars current owner or if it even still exists.

carol leWis’s1956 chevrolet 2-door hardtoPThis 1956 was r e s t y l e d f o r Carol Lewis of Baldwin Hills, California who, at the time, was Dean Jeffr ies girlfriend. This car appears to have been left p r e t t y s t o c k compared to other Barris cre-ations at the time. The grille was reworked by removing every other vertical and horizontal bar. The car had Buick hubcaps, which were treated with an anodized dye in the center.

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20 Newsletter 19.2

The interior of the car was upholstered in dia-mond shapes (we found no pics of the interior) that matched the flames on the car…of course; Dean Jefferies painted the flames.

The car appeared in the following magazines, Dig in March 1957, Car Craft in May 1957, Trend Book 143 Restyle Your Car (which was written by George Barris and Jim Potter). It may have appeared in others.

We found no information as to this cars current owner or if it even still exists.

It is interest-ing to note that this car was almost lost in the fire at Barris Kustoms in 1957. It was a rainy and windy night and a power line that went across the rear of the property sent a shower of sparks down on the roof, starting a fire. Dean Jeffries, who worked for Barris at the time, was across the street having dinner and was the first to spot the fire. He called the Fire Department and then rushed over and got Carol’s car out before it went up in flames.

BIll carr’s1955 cheVrolet conVertIBle, “the aztec”This 1955 Chevy was restyled at Barris Kustoms for Bill Carr of Hollywood, California. Since almost everyone at Barris Kustoms had a hand in her creation she was called “The Aztec”.

The way the stor y goes Bi l l Carr, who was George Barr is’s roommate a the time, bought a brand new 1955 convertible, one of the first sold in South-ern California. Bill Carr worked as an insurance adjuster during the days and hung around the Barris shop in the evenings. As soon as he got the car Bill wanted to make some changes and some mild customizing was done, with Sam Barris’s help. Soon

however, it became clear to Bill that what he wanted was a full-blown custom unlike any-thing ever built. He enlisted the help of Bill DeCarr, who worked part time for Barris in the evenings, and they came up with a basic idea for the car. George helped with developing some sketches. The plan was to build the car, after-hours, at Barris’s shop. The work would be done by the two Bill’s and would feature changes to almost every part of the vehicle. They reshaped the doors and did scoops on the quarter panels. The rear fenders were extended 18 inches with new sheet metal and the rear fins were extended. The grille opening and rear end were identical and formed by using a pair of 1953 Studebaker pans. The bumper/grilles were modified 1957 DeSoto and 57 Olds license housing pieces. Quad headlights from a Mercury Turnpike Cruiser were formed into

the front fenders and full-length 1957 Mercury Turnpike skirts were modified with a scoop and flush fitted to the quarter panels. Sam chopped the windshield and the top

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for the cantilever roof. Sam also did the side trim, which was custom formed from 1/2” round stainless stock and he designed the extruded aluminum inserts that graced the sides surrounded by that custom stainless. George sprayed the custom mixed candy paint, which he called Golden Honey.

Many of the finest craftsmen in the custom car business also did work on The Aztec besides the guys at Barris Kustoms. Bob Hirohata made the Lucite knobs for the dash as well as the custom lenses for the taillights. Bob Houser of Carson Top Shop fabricated the front removable portion of the roof and did the upholstery and interior. Jr. Conway prepped the body for paint and Dean Jefferies did the scallops and pin striping. The car had a Corvette engine in it.

In February 1958 The Aztec was shown at the ninth an-nual National Roadster Show in Oakland where it won the Custom Car D’Elegance award. George Barris and Dean Jeffries took The Aztec to the Detroit Autorama in 1959. The Aztec became one of the most highly photographed customs in history. It was on numerous magazine covers and in numerous photo shoots.

The car appeared in the following magazines. Rod and Custom in May 1958, Motor Life in July 1958, Custom Cars in August 1958, Hot Rod Magazine in August 1958, Custom Cars in January 1959, Trend Book 175 Custom Cars 1959 Annual and Roll & Pleats Number 12. There were probably more.

But all this fame and glory to date is not the entire history of this fabulous car. Bill Carr showed the car thru 1961 or 1962 and then he sold the car to a guy named “Bob Wilcox”. Bob Wilcox was an alias used by a bank robber named “One Eye” Bobby Wilcoxson who paid him some cash and a new Pontiac for the car. After the deal was done and Wilcoxson had stashed the car in Arizona with rela-tives the FBI showed up at Carr’s house asking questions.

Soon after the FBI spoke to Carr, Wilcoxson was put on the 10 most wanted list and the FBI seized the car from the garage in Arizona. According to Jim Hurley, Bobby’s half-brother, the FBI tore the car apart looking for stashed loot,

weapons and whatever else they could find. From there The Aztec was auctioned to a man in New Jersey who modified the original customizing and sold it. Eventually the FBI seized it again when one of its owners used it to transport illegal drugs. This started what was known as “The Curse of the Aztec”.

The car is cur-rently owned by Barry Maz-za who found the car rot-ting away in a New Jersey junk yard. He immediately fell in love with it and, in 1991; he saved The Aztec from the jaws of a car crusher and moved it to Florida. Working from photos he acquired from George Barris he and Bob Nitti did a meticulous restoration of the car bringing it back to its former glory. The car now appears at various car shows around the coun-try and is the centerpiece of the Barry Mazza Collection.

Don Fletcher’s “el caPItola”1957 chevrolet 2-door hardtoP“El Capitola” was actually the last car built as col-laboration be-tween George and Sam Bar-ris. It was re-styled in Sam’s shop in Car-michael near S a c r a m e n t o (the capital of California which inspired the name) and then shipped back to Los Angeles where George did the finish work and upholstery.

Bill Carr (L) and Barry Mazza (R)

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Sam chopped the top 3 inches in front and 5 inches in the rear. The side posts were removed; originally the car was a sedan. All the glass was butted together and plastic

uprights were installed; custom drain mouldings were fabricated. The top has a 1/2” recessed upper panel, which was achieved by hammering. A pair of Stude-baker grill pans were welded in place up front and the split grille cavity was filled with an extruded aluminum grille. The hood was “Pancaked” and featured a beaded center. Vertical quad Lucas headlights were installed which were tunneled and “V” peaked with Lucas lenses and handmade directional lights. In the rear, Sam fit the car with 1957 Lincoln fins which were 96” long. The fins protruded forward into the door and they canted outward with flat T fins on top. The rear of the fins were fitted with a pair of red lenses, and the custom taillights had frosted white bars added for effect. The rear was molded like the front and fit with 1957 Desoto bumpers behind which was a grille similar to the front. The car was nosed, decked and the door handles were shaved. Hood, deck lid and doors are push button. The side trim was made from parts from a 1954 Pontiac, 1953 Olds and a 1954 Lincoln. An extruded aluminum panel like what was used on Aztec was also used on El Capitola. The fender panels have scoops in the front to cool the tires and the

brakes. Junior Conway painted the car in Dust Pearl White with Kandy Burgundy Pearl panels. All in all they shot 10 gallons of lacquer paint onto the car.

The interior of the car was upholstered in white pearl Naugahyde and impor ted gold French frieze by Eddie Martinez. There are 4 swivel bucket seats, a center console, fully chromed dash moldings and a fully chromed instrument

cluster. The car could be steered by using either the custom “X” steering wheel or by the stick in the cen-ter console. The car features a TV in both the cab and the trunk, a telephone and a stereo tape deck.

El Capitola’s engine compartment featured a 265 engine with three “Deuces”, Edelbrock valve covers and a gen-erous amount of chrome under the pancaked hood. The exhaust exited in 4 tubes in the center of the rear bumper just under the license plate and the hubcaps were custom units created by George, which included cooling fins for the brakes.

El Capitola took two years to build and appeared at many auto shows including the Sacramento Autorama in 1960.

It was voted one of the “Top 10 customs of 1961-1962” by Car Craft Magazine. The car appeared

in Trend Book 197 Custom Cars 1961 Annual, Car Craft in April 1961 and Spotlite Book

526, Twenty Top Customs.

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El Capitola has changed hands a couple of times since Don Fletcher owned it. A woman named Eula Gollahon purchased El Capitola for her 12 year old grandson Chuckie Gollahon of Brookville, Ohio in 1983. In 2005 Hemmings eWeekly Newsletter reported that Guy Boucher of Lewiston, Maine acquired the car “a few years ago”. The car was fully intact and 100% original except that the burgundy sections of the car were painted gold. Guy and his son stripped the paint down to the original body that Sam built and repainted the car in the original colors. The interior was perfect and only required a good cleaning to bring it back to its former Concourse D’Elegance glory.

sam BarrIs’s 1955 cheVrolet conVertIBleT h i s 1 9 5 5 C o n v e r t i b l e was restyled by Barris Kus-toms for Sam Barris’s wife. The front and rear fenders were extend-ed to give the car a longer

look and the rear fenders were reworked to accept the 1956 Chrysler taillights. The rear gravel pan was extended and a continental kit was added. Exhaust pipes exited thru the bumper corners. The car was nosed, decked and the door handles were shaved. A 1956 Chrysler grille frame and custom grille were installed and dual spotlights were added to help make the windshield appear lower. Side trim from a 1956 Ford was modified to parallel the dip in the upper side of the quarter panel at the belt line behind the door.

The Sam Barris Convertible won First Place in the Convert-ible Class at the 1957 Oakland Roadster Show and then it just kind of faded away. In 1958 it showed up on a used car lot in Arizona where it was spotted by a young airman named Stan Robles. Stan recognized the car right away and a few hours later was the newest owner of this Barris original. When he got out of the Air Force Stan moved the car back to his hometown of Dragerton, Utah where, over the years, he made modifications to the car. He changed the paint a couple of times and did some changes on the body. Stan installed quad vertical headlights, added side scoops and frenched in some lake pipes. Stan drove the car around Dragerton for years before moving away and storing the car at his mother-in-laws. In 1972, after asking Stan to get the car off her property numerous times Stan’s mother-in-law called the wrecker and the convertible was hauled off to the crusher.

Now you would think this was the sad end to a very nice car and it was until 2002 when a guy named Nick Phillips walked into Bo Huff’s shop in Sunnyside, Utah. Bo Huff had become a very well known custom car builder but more importantly he remembered the Barris convertible and

Stan Robles. He loved the car, he used to ride shotgun in it when Stan had the car out around Dragerton where he grew up and it made quite an impression on him. So when Nick told Bo he was open to suggestions as to what kind of custom to build Bo got out a sketch pad and sketched out the Barris convertible. He told Nick all about his experi-ences when he was a teenager with Stan and the car and Bo suggested that they build a clone. Nick agreed and went looking for a car. He returned with a 1955 2-door Sedan (post) project car.

Bo set upon the task of turning the sedan into Sam Barris’s convert-ible. He wanted to stay close to the original, but he also wanted to incorporate some of the modifications that Stan had made over the years. Bo used the same 1956 Chrysler grill frame and recreated the custom grille. He treated the rear quarters to the same extensions that Sam had done complete with the 1956 Chrysler taillights. He did the same roll on the rear pan and incorporated the continental kit. He used 1956 side trim just like the original and he copied the Barris paint scheme from memory. But instead of leaving it there he also used the vertical quad headlights he remembered on the car that Stan had added as well as the frenched in lake pipes. Bo incorporated a few modern touches as well. Bo bagged the car, installed a late model small block and power disc brakes to round out an updated package of a beautiful original.

Bo’s re-creation of Barris’s convertible debuted at the 2004 Grand National Road-ster Show, where it won top honors in the Convertible Class…just as Sam’s did. When George Barris saw the car, and signed the dash, he said that Bo had done an awesome job on the car and it looked better than it had when they had it, Stan Robles said the same thing…..Quite a compliment! The car is still owned by Nick Phillips as far as we can find.

Danchuk manuFacturIng 3201 s. stanDarD aVenuesanta ana, ca 92705

Presorted StandardU.S. Postage PAIDLaguna Niguel, CA

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date shoW location statemaY ‘1317-19 Super Chevy Show Virginia Motorsports Park Petersburg, VA24-26 Springfield Ohio Swap Meet and Car Corral Clark County Fairgrounds Springfield, OH June ‘13 31-2 Chevy High Performance Nationals Atlanta Dragway Commerce, GA9 Tri-Chevy Assoc. Swap Meet and Car Show Will County Fairgrounds Peotone, IL21-23 Back to the 50’s Minnesota State Fairgrounds St. Paul, MN28-30 Maggie Valley Swap Meet Maggie Valley Festival Grounds Maggie Vally, NC

JulY ‘1312-14 Goodguys 16th Goodguys Nationals Ohio Expo Center Columbus, OH19-21 Syracuse Nationals New york State Fairgrounds Syracuse, Ny

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