1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Custom Cruiser – Family-Built Frame-Off Restoration | 34k Miles
This 1955 Chevy Bel Air is a true family heirloom and custom build, originally restored by my late father, a professional auto body technician from Chicago who later worked in the insurance industry in San Diego. He spent about five years building the car during evenings and weekends, and it was completed here in San Diego with a full frame-off restoration.

🛠️ Mechanical & Performance
350 small-block V8 – installed new during restoration

Believed to have a racing transmission from a Pontiac Trans Am

Only 34,000 miles since restoration

Mechanically very sound – runs and drives well

Aftermarket A/C unit (likely needs a Freon recharge; current condition unknown)

🧰 Restoration Details
Frame was acid-dipped and powder-coated

Custom work done with great attention to detail

Clean undercarriage, solid build quality throughout

⚠️ Condition Notes
Paint damage from long-term storage with a heavy cloth car cover (wind abrasion)

Rear quarter panel damage from a freeway blowout caused by a defective Firestone tire

Rust present on front bumper – may need re-chroming or replacement

Bodywork, paint, and minor rust repair needed to bring it back to show-quality condition

📝 History
Built by my father and passed down to me in 1996

Countless good memories driving it during my teen years

Sadly, I haven’t had the time or funds to restore it again to its former glory

This Bel Air is a solid mechanical car with great bones and an irreplaceable story. It’s ready for someone to give it the cosmetic love it deserves. A perfect project for the right enthusiast looking to revive a family-built classic with a strong foundation.