Full Size Chevy Car Restoration Parts
Tri-Five Chevy Parts for Restoration
The Tri-Five family of automobiles includes the classic “shoebox” cars that Chevrolet produced in 1955, 1956 and 1957. Four models fall under the Tri-Five group — the Chevy 150, 210, Bel Air and Nomad. These cars had small-block V8 engines that could produce up to 162 horsepower with a standard two-barrel carburetor. They could also go up to 180 or 195 horsepower with dual exhausts and a four-barrel carburetor.
Chevy 150
Chevrolet built the 150 series as a more affordable counterpart to the 210 series and Bel Air. The 150 series sold fewer units than the 210 and Bel Air because Chevy marketed them as fleet vehicles for businesses and organizations. Compared to the 210 and Bel Air, the 150 has a unique side trim that doesn’t fully cross the front doors. After 1957, Chevrolet replaced the 150 with the Delray.
Chevy 210
While Chevrolet marketed the 150 series for fleet use, they sold the 210 series as consumer cars. 210 series cars have similar frames to 150 series cars, but their trim looks more like a Bel Air’s. Compared to the 150 series, the 210 series has more features for driver comfort, including armrests and floor carpet. The customer could also choose power windows and a power seat. Chevrolet replaced the 210 with the Biscayne after 1957.
Chevy Bel Air
As the most popular car in the Tri-Five family, the Chevy Bel Air has appeared in thousands of films. Chevrolet invested heavily in the Bel Air’s appearance to make it look like an expensive Cadillac, and they succeeded in creating one of the most iconic vehicles in history. The Bel Air expands on the features of the 150 and 210 series by offering a higher-end appearance and many customization options. Classic Bel Air interiors had chrome trim, a full chrome horn ring, full wheel covers and floor carpeting.
Chevy Nomad
Out of the four Tri-Five cars, the Nomad was the newest. Chevrolet released the original Bel Air in 1950 and the 150 and 210 in 1953. Meanwhile, the Nomad came out alongside the engine update that marked the start of the Tri-Five era. Instead of having four doors like the other three models, the Nomad was a two-door station wagon. Many Nomads also had a signature white top that stood out from the other models’ paint schemes.
1955, 1956 and 1957 Chevy Cars: A Three-Year Revolution
Classic car fans consider Tri-Five cars their own era because of Chevrolet’s advancements in engine and exterior design. During 1955, 1956 and 1957, consumers saw these changes in Chevy cars:
- – 1955: In 1955, Chevrolet revolutionized their lineup with the 265 V8 engine, an engine that they would use for decades to come. The 265 V8 defined the Tri-Five family with its high horsepower. Chevrolet revamped the Bel Air, 150 and 210 with this engine and released the Nomad show car to the public.
- – 1956: The 1956 Tri-Five models kept most of the features of their 1955 counterparts, with a few changes made to the 265 V8. 1956 265 V8 engines came standard with an oil filter, as opposed to the 1955 version’s optional one. Chevrolet also increased the 265’s standard power from 162 hp to 225 hp, with the Super Power Pack package reaching 240 hp. Car fans also note the change in the Bel Air’s grille to full width.
- – 1957: During the final year of the Tri-Five era, all cars in the family received large tail fins, more chrome trim and “twin rocket” hoods. Customers could choose from one of seven V8 engine options, including the 265 V8 and the new 283. Chevrolet also introduced the Turboglide variable gear-ratio transmission.
Explore Our Catalog of Tri-Five Parts
We specialize in interior trim and body parts for Chevy Tri-Five cars. Our aftermarket parts feature durable materials like heavy-gauge stamped steel to help you build a restoration that lasts. Choose from these Tri-Five parts and more:
Why Choose Raybuck for Chevy Restoration Parts?
Count on Raybuck for your Tri-Five restoration parts for advantages in:
- – Customer support: Every time you contact us for help, one of our team members will be there with the expertise you need. Our sales team works on restorations themselves and has extensive training on our full parts catalog. They can provide expert guidance that you won’t find anywhere else in our industry.
- – Ordering: We streamlined our online shopping experience to get you the parts you need quickly. Sort by make, model, year and part type to find your classic car’s parts. After you order, we’ll ship your parts within a few business days. Depending on availability, your order may ship in as little as one day.
- – Affordability: At Raybuck, we offer affordable aftermarket parts that don’t compromise on quality. Our parts have materials and engineering that use modern techniques to deliver durability at an accessible price.
- – Quality: Since 1985, we’ve established a reputation for reliable parts and services. Over the years, we’ve honed our inventory down to only parts that we would use in our own restorations.
Order Classic Chevy Car Parts Online
Restore your classic Tri-Five to its glory days with aftermarket parts from Raybuck. For anything from fitment questions to inquiries on the ordering process, feel free to contact us at any time.