Bumper Conversion

[MIGHTY 8]

I own a '80 spider with the "newer" 5 mph bumpers. For some time now, I've been hoping to convert my car over to the "original" pre '74 style. A few years ago, I was alble to get a hold of some early style chrome bumpers front and rear from LinneaRossa before they went down.

I've been dealing with some local bodyshops in Miami Florida, but other then providing them with pictures of what an early style Fiat looks like, I am not sure that my point is getting across.

I would like to know whether anyone has done this before, and would be willing to share their experience.

Thank you all

[spiderrey]

its been done plenty of times. ive never done it though. i only play with early cars. ive sold the parts to people so that they could do it. im sure someone will give you the info needed , good luck

[Elwood]

Hello,
Has there been a write-up created on the bumper conversion since the last post on this thread in early 2006.

Thanks,
Elwood

[WarbirdAL]

I havent seen a write up yet but I am in the process of doing it to my 77 spider. I have the rear bumpers sitting on the car, the PO had already removed the bumper shocks so putting the old ones in was pretty simple. I am leaning on welding the formt bumper ( when i find one) to the front bumper shocks so they will just slide in place. I may change my mind but for now it seems the simplest way to go. Unless anyone else has some ideas.

[So Cal Mark]

be careful welding the bumper shocks, those things are under pressure already.

[WarbirdAL]

thanks Mark, I hadnt thought about that.

[stefhahn]

I did buy a set of brackets custom made for mounting the old style bumpers to the new body setup at http://www.del-priore.com - this did cost me 115€ (round $150 or so these days) and - if I would be good at welding I'd do these myself. Actually they are just steel tubes/pipes w/ a piece of flat steel welded to it. I will remove the bumpers and the brackets anyway later this year (late Sept/early Oct, I think)- then I can take some pics and give you the measures.
ciao,
Stefan