Engine Overhaul???

[Crusher]

Hello Gents, I am new to the site and have a quick question. I am the proud new owner of a 78 124 Spider, she is rust free, straight, and has all the pieces. Just a few minor cosmetics like carpet and a new top are needed, the big problem is the engine. The owner told me the engine froze up, and with a little research I found that was a fairly common thing with the 1756 cc motors. I'm no master mechanic but I can handle overhauling an engine as long as I don't need to bore the cylinders, if it needs a bore I will have to find a shop.

Anyway, does anyone have a good video of how to go through one of these 1756 cc motors, a video that shows all the ins and outs? Also, what recommendations for increasing power and performance do you have without going all crazy? I'm not looking to pump 500 hp out of this thing, but instead hopefully take the stock 86 hp up to around 100+, whatever is practical so it can be a reliable daily driver.

Thanks!

[SteinOnkel]

Classic N/A tuning I would reckon. First and foremost, bump up the compression. You can probably go to 10.5:1 safely on pump gas.

Second, electronic ignition. That's a no-brainer.

Thirdly, the respiratory system. Get dual carbs (ugh) or get a Weber 34ADF.

Fourthly, valvetrain. Lots of power to be made there and the curve can be shifted. Not cheap though. Bigger valves, sharper cams that sort of thing.

Lastly, tubed headers w/ bigger exhaust.

That should net you at least 100hp and be reliable.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Crusher, in addition to what SteinOnkel said above, my question is: What do you mean the engine froze? Simply stuck due to not being started in many years (fixable), or stuck due to a major internal problem that could mean the end of this particular engine?

-Bryan