New 78 fiat spider owner

[fhavellana]

Newly registered and wanted to drop in and say hello! I just inherited a 1978 fiat spider from my sister thats in good physical shape. It started it up and drove like a champ until a few days ago when it lost all its power. It starts up and Idles no problem but does not have any power. The car only goes a few miles an hour. Its got a brand new fuel filter and the old one looked good when I pulled it out. It also pumped fuel no problem to the carb. Any suggestions on where to start?

[azygoustoyou]

Congrats on getting a Spider. I have a 78 also. Welcome to the forum. There are plenty of people here that can help you. Sorry I don't have any answers for you. I'm still learning myself. When you get a chance let us know where your located and give us some pic's.

[TulsaSpider]

Welcome! I have a 78 also. I would look at the distributor first. I had issues with the stock points distributor when I still had it. Get yourself a manual! You are going to need it! I would change out all the rubber under the hood, especially the timing belt if you do not know when the last time it was changed.

[azygoustoyou]

If it is the distributor. I have a rare elect. dist. 4/sale. I have it on ebay now. It doesn't use a vacuum advance.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayI ... ESELX%3AIT

[fhavellana]

It was the distributor. The dang thing wasn't screwed down all the way and allowed moisture to get in there. So I changed cap and rotor and while I was in there changes points, condenser,plugs, plug wires and coil .The thing runs and idles perfect now. It even feels like its getting more power now. Success! I have it back on the road again and loving it!. Thanks to all and I will get pics soon.

[TulsaSpider]

Wohooo!!!!