This story first appeared in the September/October 2024 issue of Hagerty Drivers Club magazine. Join the club to receive our award-winning magazine and enjoy insider access to automotive events, discounts, roadside assistance, and more.
West Virginia Tourism at the 2023 SEMA Show
The West Virginia Department of Tourism set up a booth at the 2023 SEMA Show to promote the vibrant automotive culture of the state and attract enthusiastic businesses. I was thrilled to be invited to showcase my 1956 Corvette, equipped with a 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 and a T-56 manual transmission. The only stipulation was that I needed to transport the car to and from Las Vegas myself.
Choosing the Perfect Tow Vehicle
After much searching, I was unable to find a transporter willing to handle the trip. Thus, I opted to tow the Corvette myself, and what better vehicle for the job than my 1957 Chevy Nomad? It was painted in the same eye-catching shade—Sapphire Blue Pearl—as my Corvette, creating a cohesive and stylish towing combination.
The Nomad: A Restomod Journey
The Nomad is a restomod that I’ve worked on from 2002 to 2007, transforming it from a rusted shell into a head-turning classic. The restoration process involved complete new floors, fenders, and a quarter panel to get the body into prime condition. I also modernized it with air conditioning, cruise control, power rack-and-pinion steering, and Hydroboost power brakes. With a history of completing several Hot Rod Power Tours with my LS1-powered Nomad, I felt confident about making this trip.
Preparation for the Long Journey
Before we hit the road, I made some additional adjustments to prepare for towing. I installed an external transmission cooler and air shocks to help manage the 4,200 pounds of trailer weight effectively. With everything prepped, my wife Joyce and I began our five-day journey to Las Vegas, excited for what lay ahead.
A Scenic Route through America
As we traveled through the mountains, the Nomad performed remarkably well, proving its reliability. On the third day, anticipating severe snow on our planned route, we altered our path southward. This decision led us to traverse stretches of iconic Route 66 across New Mexico and Arizona, allowing us to enjoy some classic Americana during our journey.
Arriving at the SEMA Show
Upon arriving at our hotel in Las Vegas, we were greeted by a plethora of other SEMA-bound vehicles. The reaction from the crowd was phenomenal—many were surprised to see a 1957 Nomad towing a 1956 Corvette, especially with the unique West Virginia license plates on both vehicles. It was a sight that turned heads and sparked conversations.
Showcasing the Corvette’s Revival
During the event, I found myself enthusiastically discussing the Corvette with fellow enthusiasts. This particular car was a four-year project that began in 2016, rescued as a barn find that had been disassembled since the 1970s. Following a comprehensive restoration, we equipped it with a Chassis Concepts chassis, C4 suspension, and Schott custom wheels, while also incorporating modern comforts like air conditioning and power steering.
Our adventure to the SEMA Show totaled 5,004 miles—a journey filled with challenges, camaraderie, and the validating experience of showcasing the quality of both my Nomad and Corvette to appreciative car lovers. It was an unforgettable experience that celebrated not just our vehicles, but the passion that connects car enthusiasts everywhere.
A Journey to SEMA: Towing Classics with Style
In the automotive world, few experiences rival the thrill of showcasing your prized vehicles at iconic events like the SEMA Show. This year, a unique adventure unfolded as a classic 1957 Chevy Nomad took on the responsibility of towing a magnificent 1956 Corvette from West Virginia to Las Vegas.
The Challenge of Transporting Classics
When an invitation arrived to display the 1956 Corvette at SEMA, excitement mingled with a logistical challenge: how to transport the classic car across the country. With limited transportation options available, the idea of towing the Corvette with a vintage tow vehicle emerged as the only viable solution.
The Perfect Tow Vehicle
What better companion for the journey than a stunning 1957 Chevy Nomad? Finished in the same eye-catching Sapphire Blue Pearl as the Corvette, this restomod is not only aesthetically pleasing but also equipped for the task. Built between 2002 and 2007, the Nomad underwent extensive renovations, transforming it from a rusted relic into a powerful and reliable classic.
Preparing for the Road
With the Nomad prepared for towing duties, it was time to hit the road. Modifications included the addition of an external transmission cooler and air shocks to handle the weight of the trailer and ensure a smooth ride. This preparation instilled confidence, especially after several successful Hot Rod Power Tours that the Nomad had completed with an LS1 engine.
The Journey Begins
Setting off from West Virginia, the five-day journey to Las Vegas began with enthusiasm. Despite the mountainous terrain, the Nomad performed admirably, successfully navigating across diverse landscapes. Midway through the trip, the forecast called for snow, prompting a diversion south along the historic Route 66, providing both scenic views and a sense of adventure.
Arriving at SEMA with Style
Upon reaching Las Vegas, the Nomad turned heads as it rolled into the hotel parking lot, towing the Corvette. The combination of classic cars and West Virginia plates intrigued fellow enthusiasts and generated excitement among attendees. The warm reception underscored the camaraderie within the automotive community.
A Showcase of Craftsmanship
At SEMA, the Corvette attracted attention thanks to its unique backstory and stunning restoration. Originally a barn find, the Corvette had been sitting disassembled since the 1970s. The meticulous restoration involved upgrading to a Chassis Concepts chassis, incorporating C4 suspension, and adding modern amenities like air conditioning and power steering, creating a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern performance.
Documenting the Adventure
The journey, spanning over 5,000 miles, showcased not just the reliability of the Chevy Nomad, but also the passion and dedication that the owner put into both vehicles. The trip proved to be a fulfilling experience, garnished with appreciation from fellow car enthusiasts, validating the hard work and craftsmanship involved in these classic restorations.
Conclusion: An Adventure Worth Remembering
The SEMA trip was not just a showcase of cars; it was an adventure filled with challenges, scenic drives, and interactions with like-minded individuals. This journey highlighted the enduring beauty of classic cars and the vibrant community that supports them, reminding us all why we cherish the world of automotive passion.
