How to Build Reliability

Mark_vaughn · Post by **Mark_vaughn** » Mon Aug 28, 2006 3:12 pm

I have a question for everyone. Due to some planned changes in my life I want to drive the Fiat as a daily driver in about 2 years. No trips or anything, just around town, and my wife will still have a Toyota (no wiring problems).

In planning for that, here is my question:

What projects do you think I should perform to improve reliability?

We are talking about a '77 Spider without emission stuff.
Things I have already done recently:
Upper and lower ball joints, all front suspension bushings, shocks all around, new brake lines, rebuilt brake calipers, new rotors/pads, new radiator temp sensor, replaced all fluids, and alot of cosmetic stuff.

Thanks for your input!!

HOLLYWOODSPIDER · Post by **HOLLYWOODSPIDER** » Mon Aug 28, 2006 3:37 pm

I'd definitely replace all the cooling hoses and the belts (esp. the timing belt). Replace the rubber driveshaft donut. It wouldn't hurt to rebuild the wheel cylinders and get a new master cylinder. Check out the steering system (box, idler, bushings, tie rod ends) and keep it lubed.

Far more involved but worth the time in the long run is cleaning all electrical connections on the car. Especially the grounds. Electrical gremlins can wreak untraceable havoc at the most inconvenient times.

Mark_vaughn · Post by **Mark_vaughn** » Mon Aug 28, 2006 5:53 pm

Thanks,
Forgot to mention, I have the parts to replace the doghnut, tie rod ends and center link, tires, and I have an allignment planned after those go on.

Are leaking seals a problem other than spots on the driveway and constantly adding oil? Anyone used one of these "leak stop" products with success?

fiater · Post by **fiater** » Wed Aug 30, 2006 8:53 pm

Where do you live? If You're in the "Rust Belt" and you drive the car on salted roads in the winter, the car will develop a terminal case of cancer and won't live very long. If you do live in the "Rust -Belt" I'd buy a "winter- rat" and keep the Spider out of the salt.

mbouse · Post by **mbouse** » Wed Aug 30, 2006 10:23 pm

i concur with fiater entirely.

you say no emmissions, so that is an indication of rust belt living.

from a life long "Winter Wonderland" resident....i know how bad salt and slush affect a vehicle.

get a beater if you wanna keep your fiat

Gerard Del Monte · Post by **Gerard Del Monte** » Thu Aug 31, 2006 1:54 am

Electrics, and it's free. Disconnect and clean off every electrical connection and ground you can find ( incl the fuses) , then smear with dielectric grease and reconnect.

And I'd spray POR15 or similar anywhere I even THINK there might be rust. Incl ( hint) under the rear seat and backrest.

Gerard Del Monte · Post by **Gerard Del Monte** » Thu Aug 31, 2006 1:54 am

Electrics, and it's free. Disconnect and clean off every electrical connection and ground you can find ( incl the fuses) , then smear with dielectric grease and reconnect.

And I'd spray POR15 or similar anywhere I even THINK there might be rust. Incl ( hint) under the rear seat and backrest.