Re: Spider info wanted

[Hal Taylor <taylor@domain.elided>]

Vlad

My '86 spider veloce is blue metalic (well, actually it's in primer now, but it will be blue metallic again).  I think it's a beautiful car.

No, there should be no power steering.  Nor will you especially miss it, I suspect, unless you put some really fat tires on it.

I can't tell you much about the rust repair, but if the rockers have issues, check the supports under the floors, the rear valance (below the rear bumper) and spare tire well.  At least know what you're getting into.

Aside from stuff that you'd check on any car (engine compression, brakes, etc) check motor mounts, gear synchros and anything electrical.  Oh, and A/C, if you care.  I'd also take note of the apparent condition of the front end.

I'd say, depending on how the car's been treated, 100k miles is about when it's likely to start getting a little needy; at least mine did.  But if you don't mind working through that, it's a great little car.

If I remember correctly, Scott Johnson's Spider FAQ page has has some pre-purchase inspection notes.  Unfortunately, I don't have the URL handy...  Maybe someone else does?

Good luck.

Hal Taylor
'86 spider veloce "Strega" (most of the "needy-ness" has been addressed, I hope)

VLADDS@domain.elided wrote:

> Hi guys
> I'm looking to add an '86 Spider to my 91 164.Is an '86 with power windows supposed to have power steering?
> Also, how hard is it to fix rust on rocker panels on these cars.I saw on the IAP catalog several replacement parts listed.How many items are involved into a rocker panel? upper, lower inner and outer? (hehe)
> I was thinking to do a bit of work myself into replacing the panels, and then having the whole thing repainted.
> What else should i look for in this car?
> It has around 100 K miles, blue metalic, good looking spark plug wires, various segments of repaint on it,(i don't care about the paint too much, realize it might been into a fender bender or downright accident, i'm only worried about major, visible frame damage or rust), idles quite roughly, exhaust looks recent and rear suspension straps.Top looks very good, recent even, maybe.I could probably get it around $2000
> Any suggestions?
> Vlad
> '91 164L
> Long Island, NY

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