Story by Gord Bradley
Photos by Helen Bradley

     Paul Stevenson looked for a nice ’56 Chevy for quite some time. Having had two ’56 Chevys previously he was anxious to find another now that his family had grown and life had settled down. He found this one on E-bay and contacted the owner. Several contacts and pictures later, Paul decided this was THE ONE! Unfortunately, as is often the case, what looks good turns out to be more work that one would expect it to be. This car was a rusted hulk that was so far gone Paul says he should have passed on the build - but emotions got in the way. It had been over thirty years since his last ’56 Chevy and he really wanted to build this one himself. It’s the first one that Paul has ever built and he says it has been a great experience. He’s met some great people and has learned a lot from doing the build and sometimes he’s learned the hard way. Don’t we all?
     One of the most helpful people was his daughter Shelby. To show his appreciation he has named the car Shelair (Shelby and Belair).
     Paul started this project by removing the body from the frame and doing a lot of media blasting. The rear suspension spring pockets were moved inside the frame for more tire clearance and 2” lower springs were installed. The front suspension was treated to 2” dropped spindles and 1” dropped springs, then a sway bar was installed. A 500 series power steering box was used and coupled to an Ididit steering column topped by a Lecara leather wrapped wheel.
     The brakes consist of a billet aluminum master cylinder with a chromed power brake booster. Chevelle disc brakes are mounted on the front followed by a 3.73 to 1 ratio posi rear axle with drum brakes. 17” x 8” Foose Nitrous wheels with Khumo 205/40/17 tires are mounted on the front while 17” x 10”s and 285/50/17s bring up the rear.
     The 350 Chev engine features an Edelbrock 600cfm carb on a Weiand intake. An Accel H.E.I.ignition feeds Taymor wires and the exhaust exits through Headman headers and Flowmaster mufflers. A McLeod 11’ clutch engages a Tremac five speed manual transmission. Victoria Transmission built a custom driveshaft.
     The interior showcases a stock dash with smoothed seams, an Autometer tach, custom Autosound stereo with a 10 disc CD in the trunk. A Sony amp and six speakers give you all the music you could use. American Autowire activates the power windows and Vintage Air system.
     The upholstery done by Perry Cosgrove of Buckets and Benches is a knockout! Using all leather in a taupe colour with inserts at the top of each seat that mimic the shape of the fan on either side of the dash is a stroke of genius.  Matching Mercedes wool carpet is the finishing touch. The trunk area is also done, this time the Chev bow tie is featured in raised leather on the panel behind the rear seat.
     Extensive bodywork had to be done as mentioned earlier. Stu Palfrey replaced the rear quarter panels and the rocker panels. He also frenched the licence plate, smoothed the inner fender panels and firewall, and built 2” mini tubs to house those big rear tires.
     Steve Andrejkew handled the 2 stage/2 tone Jaguar Champagne and Porsche Blue outstanding paint job.
     By following his dream, Paul has built an outstanding, comfortable, and dependable ride. By building this car he has proven that desire can overcome almost any obstacle life throws in your way.  It’s kind of like the little train that says “I think I can, I think I can”.