164 stuff

[Alfa Romeo Search and Rescue Society <alfabill@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> Date: Sun, 24 Jan 1999 13:54:33 +1100
> From: Anthony Toy <anthonytoy@domain.elided>
> Subject: My 164
> 
> This is my first posting on the digest, so I have a couple of questions 
> regarding my 1991 164L.

Welcome to the asylum!
> Firstly I am not sure if I should be concerned about my automatic 
> gearbox. It seems to slip a little in first and when changing in to 
> second, but only when cold.SNIP>> 

164 auto boxes are needy in the maintenamce department. You must
regularly change the fluid to prevent a varnish build up in the top of
the unit. Pumped out, not just drained. Around every 30K or so. Other
wise they meet an early death. Try a fluid swap first, and see what
happens.

> Where is the button for the motronic self test? I have looked everywhere 
> on the steering column and can't find it! Is it possible my model doesn't 
> have one?

If you have one, It is on the lower left side of the plastic surround on
the column on LHD cars. Just a square button and tough to spot if you
haven't seen it before.

> Lastly, the car seems to loose power when hot and has been sitting in 
> traffic for a while. This seems to be accompanied by a slight surging 
> uphills. The distributor cap is quite worn but I can't see how this could 
> be the cause and replacement is very expensive. CO has been checked by 
> the garage and is apparently OK. The heads have just been reconditioned 
> and has had no effect and everything else seems in good order. Any ideas?

This is where we will have a problem... You have to maintain the car to
expect performance. Change the cap and face the music. ($) That will
help across the board. Also change your fuel filter, as it can affect
running if it is dirty.

Areas to look at are the pressure regulator, and perhaps the temp.
sending unit for the Bosch. Ignition and plugs? Wires? what is the
maintenance on this car? The more things worn, the more likely it will
run poorly. Also, check and clean the connections to all of the Bosch
items. Good contact is a must. 

Hope this helkps and isn't perceived as a rant.
> 
> Thanks
> Anthony Toy
> Sydney, Australia
> 

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