Hello

[MikeInTN]

Hello all, this is Mike in Bartlett, TN. I recently brought a '76 124 Spider home as a project car. I previously had an '81 Spider 2000 anniversary edition, so I'm really enjoying having and working on a Spider again. I retired last year, so I have plenty of time to devote to this project. The '76 hasn't been started in decades, but despite that, appears to be in pretty decent shape. I'm currently working on the fuel system- hoses, carburetor, sending unit, etc. There are a number of other items on my list before I try starting her. I'm a novice at restoration, so I'm kind of taking my time and doing as much reading/research as actual work. Any advice anyone has would be very welcome and appreciated. There's lots to do, but I'm enjoying everything about this ride. Thanks!

[rdv]

Hi Mike,
welcome to the forum and congratulations to your purchase!
Any pics to show (the "before" project status)? We are always interested in new member car pics!

The worldwide Spider Register actually counts 136 cars in Tennessee (including 5 model year 1976 Spider), see here:
https://www.fiatspider.de/register?Fahr ... =Tennessee

Is your car already listed? If not, it would get great to get your car data! Thanks in advance.

Good luck with your project!

Cheers Ralf

[MikeInTN]

Hi Ralf, thanks for the welcome note.

Actually the car was a gift, one I was very excited to receive. The previous owner (the original owner for 49 years), a friend of a family member, decided he didn't have the time to work on it and wanted it to go to a good home. I'm the lucky recipient.

I do have some photos. I've been reading the how-to on uploading them and hope to have a few uploaded soon.

I don't believe the car is in the registry, unless the original owner made an entry. I'll work on that too.

Thanks for the reply and the information!
Mike

[wizard124]

Hi Mike,
I look forward to hearing of your progress.

I own a California edition 1980 with FI. Although a runner when I bought it, there was alot to fix. Fortunately, there was minimal rust to deal with. It was a fun project.

It remains mostly stock. I have never torn into the engine. Runs great (when I put it away for the WY winter).

Good luck with yours!
Warren

[MikeInTN]

Hi Warren, and thanks.

Fortunately, I'm not seeing a lot of rust issues that concerns me either. And I hope I have a similar experience where I'm not having to rebuilt the engine.

My car appears to need mostly general maintenance items- belts, hoses, gaskets, fluids, tires, battery, etc, but I'll know more once I try to start it. A new carburetor is next on my list. The car will need paint, a new top, and a little upholstery work at some point.

Even though its been kind of a slow process for me, given my lack of expertice, I'm really enjoying it.

Thanks for the note!
Mike