Proud New Owner! 1978 Fiat Spider 124 Convertible

[TheJacobBurke]

Hey guys,

My name is Jacob and i was recently given a 1978 spider 124 from my aunt! I am super excited and love these vehicles! anyways, a little about myself. I just turned 19 on last wednesday. I love cars and love working on classics especially. I live in Texas. A little south of Dallas. Now for some information about my vehicle! Its navy blue and is chipping all over. rusted out in some areas and the entire is cracking all over. needs a bunch of new parts and work but im willing to do it and cant wait for the final result. Im hoping that you guys will help me through the process as i do not know much about this fine italian vehicle. fortunately, i did fix the carburetor and got it running but it idles high and tends to stall when moving slow or at lights. All help will be appreciated

Cheers! Jake

[Exit98]

Hi Jacob,

Congratulations on your new Spider. Be careful there's a saying around here a free Fiat cost the most.

The rust is your biggest challenge, make sure it isn't structural, particularly on the shock towers and where the real trailing arms attach to the underbody. If there are problems there you'll need to re-think your plans.

Otherwise everything else can be fixed and they are great fun once up and running.

Good Luck.

[velozi]

Welcome and good luck. Post some photos of the progress.

[RRoller123]

Welcome aboard! There are lots of people here with much knowledge and a willingness to share it!

[TheJacobBurke]

Hi Jacob,

Congratulations on your new Spider. Be careful there's a saying around here a free Fiat cost the most.

The rust is your biggest challenge, make sure it isn't structural, particularly on the shock towers and where the real trailing arms attach to the underbody. If there are problems there you'll need to re-think your plans.

Otherwise everything else can be fixed and they are great fun once up and running.

Good Luck.

Thanks! And that would make sense. There is quite a bit to do. Like i have to replace the entire inside except for the seats and gauges. The top is cracked all over so i do have to get a new one. Needs a new paint job cause it is cracking and peeling all over. etc etc etc. its definitely a project but im looking forward to it Most of the rust is not structural luckily but there are a few things that could pose a problem. i will only know once i get it up and really get a look under the car.

[TheJacobBurke]

Welcome and good luck. Post some photos of the progress.

where exactly should i post the photos? should i make a new topic under another category for just the restoration process in general? or on this topic or what???

[TheJacobBurke]

here is the restoration thread link hope everyone enjoys!

http://www.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopic ... 30&t=18817