Rock-Solid Project: 1955 Chevrolet Nomad
Chevrolet introduced the Nomad Wagon in 1955, and the new offering was among the most expensive in the company’s model range. The cost resulted in relatively low sales volumes, and pristine examples now command eye-watering prices. This 1955 Nomad is far from perfect, but it is a solid and essentially complete classic that could be the base for a rewarding project build. It has hibernated for decades, deserving a new owner who can recapture its former glory. The Nomad is listed here on Craigslist in Aloha, Oregon. The seller has set their price at $30,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting another excellent project candidate.
The history of this Nomad is vague, with the seller confirming it has been in storage since around 1979. The shed or barn offered reasonable protection because while the paint has seen better days, its rust issues are surprisingly minor. It is confined to the spare wheel well, one floor brace, and a few pinholes in the rear floor. The frame is solid, and the lower body extremities are clean. Regaining the Nomad’s youthful good looks will take time and effort, but at least it won’t involve hundreds of hours of cutting and welding to guarantee the body is sound. A vehicle of this caliber deserves a frame-off approach, which will help ensure it is still plying our roads for many years to come. The driver’s window is cracked, although the remaining tinted glass should clean and polish nicely. This classic retains its original trim and chrome, with the condition ranging between restorable and items that should sparkle after some work with a high-quality polish.
This Nomad isn’t numbers-matching, with its original engine making way for a 283ci V8 of 1959 vintage. It sends its power to the road via a two-speed Powerglide transmission. The specifications of the replacement V8 are unclear, but it is safe to assume that it should produce at least 185hp and 275 ft/lbs of torque. That won’t make this a muscle wagon, although it should hold its own in city traffic and cruise effortlessly at freeway speed. The seller uses the dreaded “ran when parked” line in their listing. It is worth noting that this was in 1979, so much water has passed under the bridge since. However, the engine turns freely, making revival possible. They also include a range of new parts. The buyer will receive new rear springs, shocks, brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and brake lines. The parts require installation, but they are a welcome bonus.
The “complete but needs work” theme continues inside this Nomad. The Blue and White upholstered surfaces have seen better days, and I don’t think throwing blankets over the problem will cut the mustard. A retrim would be the sensible move, especially considering the potential value awaiting the new owner once work is complete. However, the Nomad retains vital components, like the seats, bright trim, factory radio, and clock. The Trim Tag will furnish information on the correct upholstery combination for those considering the faithful approach. Otherwise, there is no shortage of companies that can supply stunning custom trim.
The seller’s price for this 1955 Nomad project isn’t pocket change, but that raises the question of whether the figure is justified. Chevrolet sold 770,955 Bel Airs across all variants in 1955, but the high sticker price meant that only 6,103 buyers splashed the cash on a Nomad. That makes these classics relatively rare, and their prices in the current market reflect that. Successful sales of around $80,000 are common, while a six-figure sum awaits an owner achieving perfection. The seller’s price leaves a lot of room to move before the project’s financial viability becomes questionable. I think it will find a new home, and I’m sure I’m not the only one who would love to see this glorious Chevrolet once the work is complete.
Comments
No thanks
not rusty, look at the back left roof gutter…
In the description of the car on Craigslist, the seller notes three places where rust is and then says that’s all. Perhaps you should have walked around and looked at the tailgate that is rusting away or the are the rust on the left rear gutter. He’s got nice pictures of the driver’s side of the car and none of the passenger side of the car, what gives with that. $30,000 for this piece is extremely high for all the money that would have to be put in to doing the rotisserie restoration. The restoration should also include a correct 265 V8.
And bottom of the tailgate.
There’s not many GM products I’d buy, BUT, a big but, a nomad is on my list.
Every since as a kid, I built a Revell model of one, it went thru many changes over time, using parts from other kits, wheels, engines, graphics, paint colours, etc.
But now I want one, just as it left the factory , V8 of course.
This was doesn’t have the original motor, but the replacement is almost date correct, so I’m interested.
It was AMT that made the ’55 Nomad model kit that you’re thinking of I bet. The graphic on the top of the box showed a drag version with Wompin’ Wagon graphics on the side (if we’re talking 1/25 scale anyway). The Nomad that Revell made was a ’57. Don’t recall anyone making a ’56 Nomad model kit back then anyway.
Love the 55 Nomads the best… the rear wheel wells look so aggressive next to the 56/57, the wheels are perfect for the car, the tinted glass looks awesome. If the rust is as minimal as described, this could make an awesome car. Once it was made safe and driving, I’d matte clear it while restoring the interior and other pieces. Disc brakes, AC, and eventually paint. Thank god I’m too far and too old, haha!
Rock solid…..looks beg to differ….
Tell us why you think that. Don’t just knock it.
And I’m a GM hater, lol
7000.00 $ 100.000$ restoration.cant say here what I want to about seller.
The spot behind the drivers door for starters…..then follow it to the rear bumper.
My eyes are watering
This would be a perfect car for my Nomad project. I’m a FORD guy, BUT, I do like the 55 Nomad. Not a 56 or a 57. I have a spare 351 Cleveland block sitting in the garage that needs a car to put it in. This Nomad is about ready for the crusher so no big loss. I would finish the body work and paint it maybe primer gray, or hot rod black. Then put some POWERED BY FORD stickers on the front fender, take it to a cruise nite, park next to the first 1932 FORD 3-window coupe with a red engine and the distributor in the back, put up my lawn chair and listen to the cheebie people whine and moan. Gives me goose bumps just thinkin about it…..
Amen brother, a little karma is long overdue. Nothing I’d love to see more than a chiverlet with a beautiful blue motor under the hood. You could name it “SWEET REVENGE” LOL
Right on. What guys fail to realize is that whatever engine the OWNER drops between the frame rails is the correct engine.
Love the look of the car as it sits though.
I didn’t know rocks where made of rust and Bondo,learn sumpin new every day.
Restorable, yes. Worth 30K, no.
Big project many hours of body work the tail gate will be rusted out on the bottom
Known seller in this area, usually deals in just parts. Was listed by them around 6 months ago at 25k area, now 30. Hard pass for me, and I love 55’s, especially Nomads. That smell you’re smelling? It doesn’t lie. :-)
I’m more interested in the 442 in the back-round!
I am more interested in the Capri in the background
That left quarter looks a little ruff woof woof!
My friend just did an interior in a 55 Four door wagon. Factory style replacement interior was 10 thousand installed.
Love the ‘55 nomad ! I would like to know roughly how much it would cost if a person does a frame off restoration , engine work, and interior themselves vs taking it to a restoration shop ? Half the cost ? It’s great if a person has the knowledge to do this. When I was young my dad and some neighbors used to do their own bodywork and dad painted a few cars in the garage, you don’t see that anymore. Remember Earl Scheib ? Maaco? Restoration today is at such a higher level , pure craftsmanship !
1/8 the cost
Depends upon your skill level and having the right tools and equipment and plenty of space to dismantle the car. Climate controlled is also best. One of the biggest and worse mistakes people make is leaving bare metal unprotected because then you are working backwards. I would highly recommend taking a class at a community college to familiarize your self with the proper procedures.
The last thing you want is to waste your money on paint and materials and equipment. A school may also undertake the project.
I have a 265 engine that ran when pulled / if anyone needs one
Plain City Ohio
1: Don’t see any pics of the ashtrays.
2. Bet they’re dirty. Doesn’t look like the horn works.
3. Tires s little low.
Pass, too much work to only end up with a’55 Nomad.