Re: alfa-digest V7 #1355

[Pottree@domain.elided]

In a message dated 02/14/2000 10:23:07 PM Pacific Standard Time, 
owner-alfa-digest@domain.elided writes:

<< I am open to any and all
 suggestion that you may have for a first time Spider owner.
  >>


I'm on my second go-round with a spider; the first was a 71 and the current 
is a 91.  The mere fact that the same basic model was in production for about 
25 years is itself a testament to the status of an Alfa spider as a true 
thoroughbred, a classic.  That's why people notice it, not because they 
mistake it for some Johnny-come-lately Ferrari, but gasp in awe at a real 
Alfa!  Plus, it's red.

You'll have to turn to tall (American?) drivers for advice on the driving 
position re: your height.  But other spider tips you should be collecting 
should start with these, I think:

Get the Alfa Bible by Pat Braden

Go over the Spider FAQ file if you haven't already

Join your local Alfa Romeo Owners Club chapter

Learn to be sensitive to changes in smells, sounds, vibrations - the car will 
talk to you and you will learn to hear it and interpret it over time

Fold a terrycloth towel in the plastic window when you have the top down to 
help preserve it

If you drive with a cap on, make sure it is very tight or it will soon be 
history

If you park at night with the top down anywhere there's humidity, fold the 
seats forward while you're away from the car

Ditto if you park in the hot sun during the day

Don't lock the car with the top up!

Don't let anyone "hang a finger" or even use the latches on the wind wings

Keep a towel in the car at all times

Be mindful of where you park; the low nose is vulnerable

Be careful traversing speed bumps and drainage depressions in the roadway

Even if they can, other drivers will claim they can't see you - drive even 
more defensively and be prepared for quick getaways

People will stare, smile, wave at you, so be ready with a gallant response

Start dressing better

No matter who is smiling your way, keep your eyes on the road and don't let 
your newfound sex appeal go to your head

If your wife asks you to put the top up, DO IT!

If your wife doesn't ask you to put the top up, don't offer

Use only distilled water in the coolant mix

Get to like birds

Enjoy!

Charlie
LA, CA, USA

84 GTV6
91 Spider

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