Thought I would post some pics of my (it's now my wife's) newly acquired 1985 Fiat/ Pinifarina Spider (9/84 production date):
http://imgur.com/a/EduQj
After purchasing the car, I wanted to insure the cars operational safety so I am in the process of repairing the following:
1. Replace upper and lower control arm bushings and ball joints.
2. Repair steering rack outer bushing (passenger side) that is missing from rack. Rack is out, just need to remove outer tie rod socket (should be interesting!). Any suggestions for lubrication- moly grease or 90w? New tie rod ends.
3. Will replace front and rear springs and shocks with AR and Koni's.
4. Engine service with timing belt replacement.
5. Stainless steel brake lines all around with new front rotors and pads. This has the larger front brakes.
6. Replace clutch cable.
7. Replace transmission and rear differential oils.
8. Wheels removed and have been powder coated. Installing new Falken ZE-329 185/60R14 tires.
The leather interior is in okay condition, but needs the drivers seat repaired and certainly replace the faded carpet. The paint job is not to bad, but the front left/ right areas near the headlights are really not up to a standard I am happy with. A previous repair was not done properly. What is critical is the car has no rust and no other accident damage. So it is really a solid foundation to start with.
My first paying mechanic job was working at an independent Fiat shop in Pismo Beach CA- Terry's Fiat. I have owned many Fiats over my lifetime, staring with a non-running Fiat 850 Spider. I currently also own a 72' Spider (yellow in the one photo w/ high compression 2 L engine, but not running yet
) and a 69' 124 Sport Coupe w/ 1608 cc high compression motor. As life changes, I hope to have more time to enjoy this hobby.
This site has been a wonderful resource for both technical knowledge and assistance with finding the correct parts from various vendors. I will certainly donate to the sites cause.
Thanks,
Bob
