Bump!

Offers around the $250 mark will be seriously considered. That's a sizeable saving on a new replacement price!

Thanks!

Here are pictures of the steering wheel

I have a steering wheel from a series 2 156 for sale in excellent condition. It is the upgraded steering wheel with audio controls and I believe the 147 has the same wheel also.

PM me if you are interested. Pictures to follow shortly.

Price...I'll have to see what they retail for new. Offers welcome in the mean time.

Regards,
Anth73

Well the weather in Melbourne is warming up and once again I begin the game of trying to work out what combination of open and closed vents will work best with the asthmatic air conditioning in the 156.

Currently my preference is to close the top side air vents so that more air (I use that term generously) flows through the forward facing circular vents. I've also experimented with closing the top centre vent as well.

Note this is the updated interior. Phase 1 156's must be even worse.

Nominations please?

Hi All,

The front speakers in my 156 are constantly crackling and cutting out. A slap on the door trim above the speaker grille usually fixes it but it's an irritation I'd rather do without.

Has anyone else experienced this problem? To me it seems like the large round connector in the door frame has some play.

Thanks for your help.
Anth

The usual checks should be made as when buying any used car. Check if it has been serviced regularly and it will be advantageous if it was done by an Alfa dealer or specialist. The twin spark motor is known to be selective about oil so it pays to check that the recommended oil was used. Orgnaise a VACC or RACV inspection, and call the servicing dealer to get more information about the car's history.

Also, the cambelt change cycle is 3 years OR 50,000KM. Being a 2002 model it should have had it's belt changed (including tensioners) recently. If not, negotiate a discount on the price as it is a $800 to $900 expense. A belt failure will mean costly enine repairs.

I made up two U-shaped brackets from wire and it did the trick. Coat hanger wire probably isn't just thick enough.

NOt an exact comparison but my 156 with the 2.5V6 suffered the same issue. It comes down to the weight of the V6 and crappy dampers. Consider upgrading the front dampers to Koni Yellows or Bilsteins...it makes a world of difference. Also, don't lower it! You will regret it! It makes the ride damn aweful. The spring rates are very firm on the factory springs.

Welcome aboard! What engine / transmission combination did you end up getting?

The low engine temp will be due to the thermostat not fully closing. You can replace it yourself in under an hour if you have some basic tools and some mechanical inclination.

The creaking wishbones are another common "feature". Not really worth changing unless they are driving you mad. Get them checked by an Alfa specialist to be sure. Damon at Lance Dixon has looked after me very well...highly recommended.

Check this out. Click on "Eintren" and then "Le Mans 1977". This is the qualifying lap for the 936/77. Notice how slow it makes the Carreras look as it flies past.

http://www.porsche.com/germany/multimedia/webcinema/

I have a 156 with the 2.5V6 and 6 speed manual. This motor is known for it's high rpm performance yet I have no trouble at all dawdling around between 2K and 4K on the tacho. Driven this way I get low 11's l/100km. Driven for enjoyment pushes this up to low 12's and I figure its worth it. Heck, my other car is a 2.5 Subaru and I'd be lucky to see those consumption figures around town, and performance is non-existent.

If you're really worried about fuel consumption go the golf but by all accounts, that era Golf GTI was one by name only!

My advice...thereares plenty other low kilometre Alfa 156's on th market so save yourself the hassle and the concern. Look out for a genuine low kilometre vehicle with full service history and embrace the peace of mind.

Absolutely gorgeous!

What makes of car does your mechanic typically service? Can you take his word for it? Up to you really.

The timing belt is a rubber belt and as per any other rubber belt it will need to be replaced periodocally, usually somewhere between 3 to 5 years is what most manufacturers recommend. I can't see why it is a "big problem", unless you don't change it and it snaps, sending valves and pistons on a collision course just like most engines I know of if that happens.

As for the comment about $4000 per year to maintain, I spent that much on my 156 this year, comprised of:
- 95,000km service (basically oil and filter change)
- 100,000km service (as above plus new platninum spark plugs that won't need to be changed for another 100,000km)
- new clutch (the original lasted until the 100,000km service)
- new Koni front shockers (the V6 engine in mine is heavy and the standard shockers were not well suited to our roads, but they had not worn out)

You can see that this is not typical and inclued major items not likely to require replacement every year.

My dad's 2002 Astra needed a new ECU at just 60,000km. My wife's previous care needed new cat converters at 90,000km at a cost $5500 plus fitting (no, that's not a typo!).

Get my point....any car will require you to spend money on it as they are consumable items, some just make you feel glad to drive them whilst others are just transport. What do you prefer? 
 

I can only suggest you try Damon Earwalker at Lance Dixon Alfa. He's always been extremely helpful in my experience and knows the 156 inside out. He is also a member of the club so has a vested interest in ensureing we are looked after appropriately. Club memebers also get discounts on parts so it may be in your interest to join AROCA-Vic if you are not a member.