Where to start!?

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Bertram

Where to start!?

Post by Bertram »

Hey guys! ive got a 79 i want to restore but its my first project car and i really dont know where to start its a bit overwhelming as of now this is how the car sits Image

Image

i also got a 1977 parts car + a book shelf full of misc parts and pieces

help please!! every input is very appreciated!

Thanks a lot!
narfire
Posts: 3959
Joined: Sat Dec 27, 2008 2:14 am
Your car is a: 1980 124 spider
Location: Naramata B.C.

Re: Where to start!?

Post by narfire »

I'd start at one end and once you are happy with it move to the middle ect. Perhaps start in the engine bay and check for cracks at the point the clutch cable comes through the fire wall, the cross member,shock towers are not rusted ect. Perhaps clean and get ready for primer. Once happy with that then the passenger area. Same thing here,rust spots,seat rails sorted, area behind the rear cross member(the long trailing arms are bolted there) Doors/windows rust free and move without effort.. Then trunk area,look for rust around fuel tank lip,pull fuel tank and clean and perhaps line with tank restoration goo. Check/replace fuel lines/ brake lines. As you go along you'll see what has to be replaced.
The best tool I found in doing this stuff was my bench grinder with a wire wheel. Some have blasted with various media,and some have used wire wheels to get to the metal. The factory underlay can be a pita to remove should you want to.
Try and make a list of what has to be replaced,some from used parts and some new from the vendors.
Have fun and keep in fun and try not to get frustrated. It's a learning experience,take a few pics as you go along.
Chris
80 FI spider
72 work in progress
2017 Golf R ( APR Stg. 1)
2018 F350 crew long box
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124JOE
Posts: 3141
Joined: Fri Jun 24, 2011 7:11 pm
Your car is a: 1978 124 fiat spider sport 1800
Location: SO. WI

Re: Where to start!?

Post by 124JOE »

well stop the rust using a rust inhibider, NAVAL JELLY and this stuff
Image
when you do everything correct people arent sure youve done anything at all (futurama)
ul1joe@yahoo.com 124joe@gmail.com
Bertram

Re: Where to start!?

Post by Bertram »

Thanks lots for the replies! I was just a bit overwhelmed, it being my first project and i get the chance to start with such a Beautiful car, i just want to make sure i do the steps right! thanks again for the inputs!
smartobject
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Sep 11, 2008 11:32 pm
Your car is a: 1980 Spider

Re: Where to start!?

Post by smartobject »

Hello Bertram - I'm new here and restoring a 80 model -

How are you doing on your project - has it been a month now?

Cheers,
Lee Shelton
Memphis, TN US
Lee Shelton
Memphis, TN US
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