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“Wanderings of Our Nomad”
by
Darren Wiberg, Head Restoration Services
The Reynolds-Alberta Museum vehicle Restoration Shop has invited a
new project onto the shop floor, the 1955 Chevrolet Nomad. We are
very excited for two reasons: this project begins a new phase in our
strategic direction for change in our museum and gallery, and this
vehicle is our first frame-off restoration of a post-war car.
We are restoring this car because the 55-56-57
Nomad’s unique 2-door hardtop station wagon body is an eclectic mix
of sport car and utility vehicle and represents iconic ’50s styling.
The body is unique and had only a 3-year run. Moreover, the engine
that debuted in ’55 with the V8/265 cubic inch displacement, spawned
what is probably the most successful engine platform to date – the
venerable, small block Chev V/8 still produced more than 50 years
later.
Ironically, the restoration of this car has been
complicated because of its popularity. The Nomad that we are
restoring has been mistreated many times by enthusiasts trying to
resurrect its original condition. The poor repair techniques they
used compromised the original sheet metal and actually compounded
the amount of sheet metal that will have to be replaced. The damage
to the body from corrosion and previous repair work is severe. Our
challenge is to restore this car to its original condition.
And that’s what we do best – so here we go!
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