Burnsy’s 56: The 12-Year Snowball That Conquered Detroit Autorama
Building a world-class Tri-Five is never easy, but for Bruce and Toni Burns, "Burnsy’s 56" was a marathon of persistence. Traveling all the way from Vancouver, British Columbia, this 1956 Chevrolet Wagon arrived at the 2026 Detroit Autorama just two days after the final bolt was turned.

A Story of Persistence
What started as a simple project quickly "snowballed" into a 12-year odyssey. After a first builder went out of business and a second shop failed to meet Bruce’s exacting standards, the decision was made to strip it to the bone and start fresh. The result? Perfection.

The Details
The Powerplant: In a sea of LS swaps, Bruce went old-school muscle. It’s powered by a massive 540-ci Chevy engine featuring a Dart block, Brodix heads, and a hydraulic roller cam—all topped off with a screaming 871 Weiand blower and Holley carbs.

The Stance: It sits perfectly on an Art Morrison Air Ride suspension, giving this long-roof the aggressive profile it deserves.

The Secrets: While the left taillight houses the classic fuel filler, the right taillight hides a modern twist—opening to reveal the master kill switch and fuse panel.

Technical Specs:
Engine: 540-ci Big Block Chevy

Induction: 871 Weiand Supercharger / Holley Carburetion

Transmission: 4L80E Automatic

Chassis: Art Morrison with Air Ride

ScottieDTV brings you the up-close details and the interview with Bruce Burns to hear the story of how this incredible wagon survived a decade of setbacks to become a standout in Detroit.