I've got a strong background in repairing automobiles, aircraft and motorcycles. For the past 15 years, I've restored/repaired motorcycles as a hobby. Last weekend I picked up my biggest project yet: 1 1976 Fiat Spider (possibly a CA emission car as it has a cat and an air pump). It's a real project! It doesn't run (yet), will need a whole new interior (most likely going to switch it from Black to Tan), and needs a lot of love in the wiring department. It has significant corrosion on the lower (inner) rocker panels, rear fenders around the rear wheel well, and on the right door skin. Fortunately, I've seen repair panels for all those areas. The floor pans, frame members, shock mounts, and other parts of the body appear to be in decent shape (we'll see how well the are as I dig deeper).
I tried to first get working brakes, and couldn't get the rears to bleed. After a few days of frustration, I found that the Spider has a brake pressure regulator/rear brake compensator/brake proportioning valve. I also found that this valve is seized. First part will be to replace this valve, and get the brakes bled and working.
Then I'll pull the fuel tank and clean up the fuel lines and carb. I'll also flush and bleed the coolant. The PO replaced the top end, has new valves (after he learned the importance of a properly timed engine). So, while it has new valves, and top end, I'll probably pull it and verify it's all good as the PO claims he wasn't mechanically inclined. After that, I'll also get a new timing belt (for good insurance).
At that point, I should have the majority of the wiring at least isolated so I can have at least a little bit of hope that it won't catch on fire!
After I feel safe enough with the electrical, I'll work out the engine electrical gremlins (if any) and try to start her up.After she's all running, I'll then start tackling the body. My weakest part of this project (other than my pocketbook) is my welding skills. I need to practice more on the cheap flux core wire welder I have (I can see all the welders wince with disgust!). After the body work is all done, I plan to work the interior/top. That's my two (to five) year plan.
