Greetings!
I found a 1981 Spider that has been tragically neglected. It has been parked in a garage for 14 years, without any maintenance! Is there hope for it? Or is it a parts car? The body is in great shape. I fear for the engine. I would appreciate suggestions as to how/whether I should try to have this vehicle restored. Can anyone recommend a mechanic in New England who might be able to take on the job?
humbly,
Migeletto
Neglected and poorly stored
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mbouse
Re: Neglected and poorly stored
like any other 'classic' car restoration, what you put into it will be reflected in what you get out of it. can the car be restored? we here can't tell by the brief description you gave, but our indications are ..yes. a detailed description and pictures are a real must if we are to give a remote-control valuable opinion.
i know of no mechanical part that cannot be obtained or easily replaced with aftermarket or used parts. Engine rebuilds are common, and i know of one source that sells complete, new transmissions. Brake and suspension parts are commonly stocked repair items at all of our vendor shelves.
what these cars suffer from that is not always recoverable is rust. rust can destroy a Fiat Spider.
assuming you are correct and that the body is in sound condition, how much are you willing to pay Guido, the mechanic for his efforts at restoring this car? How much can you/are you willing to do yourself. we cannot answer those questions.
i love a good restoration project, however, they can become very tedious and expensive. i'd advise if you are not up to the challenge (which is o.k.) maybe buying a quality running vehicle is a better option.
i know of no mechanical part that cannot be obtained or easily replaced with aftermarket or used parts. Engine rebuilds are common, and i know of one source that sells complete, new transmissions. Brake and suspension parts are commonly stocked repair items at all of our vendor shelves.
what these cars suffer from that is not always recoverable is rust. rust can destroy a Fiat Spider.
assuming you are correct and that the body is in sound condition, how much are you willing to pay Guido, the mechanic for his efforts at restoring this car? How much can you/are you willing to do yourself. we cannot answer those questions.
i love a good restoration project, however, they can become very tedious and expensive. i'd advise if you are not up to the challenge (which is o.k.) maybe buying a quality running vehicle is a better option.