The final touch on the restoration of the Alfa Romeo is the addition of new wheels and tires.
All four original tires had dry-rotted, and had to be replaced. The original wheels (figure A) were constructed of steel, and somewhat pitted from rust and age. Rather than recondition the original wheels, it was decided that they would be replaced with newer wheels that offered a performance upgrade.
The alloy wheels (figure B) provide less weight, and are constructed to allow better air circulation around the brake assembly. They are wider than the originals, permitting a wider tire to be used. A wider tire gives the enhanced stability during cornering and better handling performance. The lug-nuts on the wheel were hand-torqued, making it easier remove them in the event of a flat tire.
With the upgrade of the wheels and tires, the Alfa restoration is complete. Following is a brief recap of the restoration phases that went before:
- Removal of the 1750-cc engine from the vehicle.
- Engine taken to the machine shop for a full inspection and restoration.
- Engine components reconditioned or replaced, as necessary, during engine re-assembly.
- Engine and transmission re-installed in the vehicle.
- Engine accessories replaced. Radiator reconditioned.
- Drive-train inspected and re-conditioned.
- Brake-system checked and enhanced.
- Front- and rear-suspension system inspected, and all worn items replaced. Coil springs replaced in the front. Shock absorbers replaced in front and rear.
- Rusted exhaust system replaced with a new, performance-enhanced system.
- Body rust repaired.
- Body repaired from prior collision damage. Repair work was done at a professional body shop.
- Body given a new professional paint job.
- Exterior trim and chrome pieces (removed earlier) re-installed. Weather stripping replaced.
- Interior thoroughly reconditioned and upgraded with the addition of interior carpeting. Bucket-seats removed, reupholstered and reinstalled.
- Convertible top removed, reconditioned and reinstalled.
RESOURCES :
Alfa Romeo Owner's Bible: A Hands-On Guide to Getting the Most from Your Alfa
Model: 0837607078
Author: Pat Braden
Order this book from Amazon.com
Bentley Publishers
Alfa Romeo Spider: The Complete Story
Model: 1861261225
Author: John Tipler
Order this book from Amazon.com
Crowood Press
Original Alfa Romeo Spider (Bay View Original Series)
Model: 0760311625
Author: Chris Rees, James Mann
Order this book from Amazon.com
Motorbooks International (MBI Publishing)
Essential Alfa Romeo Guilia & Giulietta Coupes & Spiders: The Cars and Their Story 1954-95
Model: 1870979591
Author: David Hodges
Order this book from Amazon.com
Motorbooks International (MBI Publishing)
Alfa Romeo: The Spirit of Milan
Model: 0750919582
Author: David G. Styles
Order this book from Amazon.com
Sutton Publishing
Classic Car Restorer's Handbook: Restoration Tips and Techniques for Owners ...
Model: 1557881944
Author: Jim Richardson
Order this book from Amazon.com
H.P. Books
Classic Car Restoration Guide: The Complete Illustrated Step-By-Step Manual
Model: 1850108900
Author: Lindsay Porter
Order this book from Amazon.com
Haynes Publishing
| 
)
)
)
)
)
