I've taken the plunge and bought a 'restoration special' - a 1957 Giulietta Spider Normale (750D). It was an Oregon car until imported about 3 years ago and I bought it from the importer a couple of months ago. It seems to have been last registered in 1973 and has been in a shed ever since. The original US owner had intended to restore/repair it but never got around to it.
The car arrived partly disassembled with the parts packed in the cabin, Steggles style. It is mostly complete and I'm currently chasing up the missing parts.
All I've done so far is strip it nearly to a shell. When it's completely stripped, I'll mount it on a trolley/rotisserie and deliver it to one of the local restorers. It is fairly rusty but all of the repair panels are available from overseas.
At one stage I was tempted to rebuild it as a Veloce (750F) but changed my mind as it will be just as much fun in standard trim.
I've attached a recent photo taken in my garage. It shares space with my 1970 1750GTV and a 1968 Fiat 500F.
Chris
Congratulations Chris - looks like quite the project!
I wish I had your skills. These cars are increasing value. Classic Throttle Shop has just listed a RHD 101 Spider for $110k. It is immaculate.
I guess it all depends though Phil. a guy down here in Hobart just recently acquired a really lovely condition 101 spider giulia spider, listed for $75K and managed to acquire it for a mere $25K. And it is in immaculate condition. So $$$ can be relative.
OMG! ::)
That was the car at Rainsfords? It was a 750 Veloce. Awesome pick-up. How the hell did he get it for $25k! That is awesome. I am bowing in his general direction.
ahh was it a 750, then even better still !!! I havn't seen it personally yet, only photos. But from those who have seen it, they have commented on just how superb it is.
How did the new owner get it for the money, I really don't know, but I imagine he waved a cheque in front of their face and simply persisted. I may be wrong but I believe it is not a matching engine numbers car, and so perhaps that helped.
Either way though and for the $$ I would think the new owner is pretty pleased with his purchase. Look forward to seeing it up and close soon. If I can I will get some pics of it.
Excellent...yes please. That is the bargain of the century in my opinion. A restored (according to Rainsfords) 750 Veloce for $25k...
Ask, if you can, how he negotiated. I need his tips! ;D
I'm not sure how skilled I am - I'm going to make sure that I have plenty of advice and help :)
I looked at the Rainsfords car when I was in Adelaide in mid last year but didn't have $75K burning a hole in my pocket at the time. It was a genuine matching numbers 1958 750F (Veloce) owned by Garry Rainsfords brother Dean and it was equipped with a 105 series 5 speed gearbox rather than the standard 750/101 series 4 speed 'tunnel' box. Apart from a few other minor issues it was a lovely car and it drove beautifully. I'd be very surprised if it went for much less than the asking price as they were in no hurry to sell.
I'll post photos as I go, but be warned, it'll be a long process - at least, 18 months to 2 years ...
Chris
All I can say Chris is yes the price I mentioned, is what I have been told he got it for. I will follow up in due course when I can and let people know thereafter. It certainly does sound like a bargain, that is for sure. I reckon if I were in the market for one I would be looking towards the US, as some reasonable finds still seem to come out of the woodwork over there. Having said that though, values are definitely rising, unlike for later model spiders, even boat tail duettos appear to be falling in price over the last year or so.
I do know a couple of his mates and between the two of them they were certainly instrumental/influential in him chasing the spider.
The cars these guys own are pretty impressive: Ferrari Dino 246GT, 365 GT, Maserati Ghibli, Lancia Fulvia Zagato, Lamborghini Urruco, Riley Special, E-Type and XK 120. So they know their cars and would have made certain that he bought well.
Anyway, like Phil and others have said well done on getting a 750 spider and good luck with the restoration project.
I had a look at the literature supplied by Rainsfords when the car was for sale and a potential bargaining point was the engine number. I was wrong in my last post - it's not a matching numbers car. The block is from a 750D (Normale) but rebuilt using Veloce components. Still at $25K it was a steal.
I've attached a few more photos of my project.
Bit rusty ...
and lots of fiddly little stuff to do as well like rebuilding gauges ...
It'll keep me out of trouble for some time I think :)
Chris
and tinworm here as well ...
plus a fair bit in the other sill and boot.
Looks like CTS have sold their $110k RHD Giulia Spider in 2 days!
Hi Phil, wow that is an impressive price, and definitely should make Chris feel pretty comfortable about what ever level of investment he needs to make into restoring his car.
I will say this much CTS sure do have a reputation for having lovely stock but with equally lovely (very elevated) prices. My brother in law purchased a classic ('72) Ducati 750SS from them a few years back. The price was high, but thankfully for him the value has since increased given its rarity/desirability.
I think what we are seeing here with 750/101 spiders and sprints is a similar situation. Fortunate for those who have one, but less so for those of us who don't but would love one !!
In the US, while they too seem to be on the increase in value, for a car to reach that stratospheric price level, would mean the car would have to be flawless. I am not sure I would want such a vehicle.
On ebay in the US there are currently 3 cars with probably more realistic/achievable prices. Two are full restoration specials, the other a nice tidy driver, which could do with a little fettling.
The '58 a 750D Abnormale ?? (thought they only came in normale and veloce) is listed at $11,100 with 10 bids and 5 days to go. It has a 101 motor, but is the nicest of all 3 cars.
The '60 giulietta normale is a full resto project but achieavable. It is listed currently at $7800, with 6 bids and 6 days to go.
The 65 Giulia Veloce has a non original (Duetto nord) engine, is basically ok, but requires plenty of work. It is listed at $11,100 (not met reserve), with 8 bids and 5 days to go.
Will be curious to see what prices they all achieve.
That is a bit of rust you have in your car there Chris, but I have seen far worse brought back from the brink and at least much of the metal work you need I believe is available as replacement section panels. I am sure you are probabaly aware of the typical range of suppliers. Certainly on the BB 750/101 section there is much discussion re this. Mind you I just did a quick Google search and came up with two new suppliers (looks like second hand parts mostly) but still possibly useful: www.alfaretro and www.vanlingen Classic Alfa in the UK appears also to have some stock.
Look forward to seeing progress on this project.
Thanks all so far.
I've wanted one of these cars for many years and took the opportunity when it came up recently. The resale value doesn't concern me much as this will be a keeper and whilst it may not end up a 100% concourse car, it will be restored faithfully to a very high standard.
Prior to purchase I did a lot of research - lurking on various BBs, buying and reading books and articles, searching out parts suppliers and joining clubs. It will all help eventually. I've already been haunting Classic Alfa, Alfa Stop and Centerline all of whom stock Giulietta 750 parts.
Marco Fazio from the Alfa archive tells me that the car was manufactured on 28.3.57 and exported to the US on 6.4.57. It was red with a black interior and will be restored in those colours.
Yes the rust is there but the car is straight and as you say, the repair panels are all available. The guys who will do the panel work are a local firm with an excellent reputation for this type of restoration. They did my Bambino about 4 years ago and it is faultless.
The reference to Abnormale arises because many owners replace either the engine or gearbox or both with ones from later models, usually from either 101 series Giuliettas or even 105s. Hence the range expands from the standard Normale and the twin carb Veloce to include the Frankenalfa Abnormale. The main reason this is done is parts availability - 750 series parts are getting difficult to find. My car came with a lot of spares - probably to make up for the missing bits :) I have nearly a spare engine, a complete spare gearbox and two complete hood frames.
As I go I'll post lots of photos.
Chris
Yes please Chris. Godspeed. Let me know if you need any help, but David has given you the good oil already. AFRA are great for parts and process.
Awesome project. I've always wanted one of these. What a great challenge as well - good luck and please keep posting detailed progress!
CTS sold the 101 original RHD Giulia Spider with an asking price of $110k in 2 days.
Quick sale for top dollar - but then it looked near perfect in the photos.
Chris
The car came with two Weber carburettors - a 28/36DCD and a 32/36DGV. The original Solex C35 is long gone so I'm faced with a choice between the Webers. I may yet try to source an original Solex, though I'm not a great Solex fan.
The Solex vs Weber topic has been discussed on the alfabb and on the Giulietta website but I keen to hear opinion weighing the two Weber options. I'm partial to Weber carburettors because of their legendary build quality and tuning flexibility but having said that though, I did ditch the little IMB on my Fiat 500 for a Dell'Orto FZD.
The DGV is complete but will not take the standard air filter.
The DCD requires parts, which are available, and with an adapter will accept the original air filter.
The DCD is the more period of the two.
Eventually, the car will only be used on the road and not rallied or raced.
Chris
Weber. Go the won that will match the air filter. IMHO.
Been away from the list while I finished preparing the car for restoration. I agree - the DCD is the more period carburettor, the air cleaner fits and the one I have has cleaned up nicely. I'm reliably informed by a local Weber expert (www.recarb.com.au) that the DCD is a better all round carburettor. It seems to be the pick for the Fiat/Morris Mini/Corolla guys.
The car has now been completely stripped to a shell without many dramas at all. It's amazing what you can achieve with a small gas torch, copious WD40 and a lot of patience - even with a rusty 56 year old hulk. It's been delivered to the restorers awaiting the application of new steel, time, effort and money. The car has had a minor front shunt in the past but is otherwise very straight with nice even shut lines. It'll come up beautifully.
I'm still hunting around replacement parts for those that are missing or unserviceable. Some of the bits are hard to find as this car is a very early model - a Series 1a I guess - and some changes were made around 1958 prior to the long wheel base early 101 series in ~1960 which then morphed into the true 101 series Guilias with the 1600 engine option. These then ran until the Duetto replacement in ~1966.
The hardest bit will be trying to hide the invoices from the long suffering wife :)
Chris
Who's restoring her, PM if you like. I need to find somebody trusted around Brisbane to take over my Duetto,
Craig
Craig,
I'm on the Sunshine Coast, so possibly a little far away for you.
Chris
Duttons has done a deal on the CTS RHD spider and offering it for $125k now!
Quote from: 1750GTV on June 06, 2013, 10:25:55 AM
Been away from the list while I finished preparing the car for restoration. I agree - the DCD is the more period carburettor, the air cleaner fits and the one I have has cleaned up nicely. I'm reliably informed by a local Weber expert (www.recarb.com.au) that the DCD is a better all round carburettor. It seems to be the pick for the Fiat/Morris Mini/Corolla guys.
The car has now been completely stripped to a shell without many dramas at all. It's amazing what you can achieve with a small gas torch, copious WD40 and a lot of patience - even with a rusty 56 year old hulk. It's been delivered to the restorers awaiting the application of new steel, time, effort and money. The car has had a minor front shunt in the past but is otherwise very straight with nice even shut lines. It'll come up beautifully.
I'm still hunting around replacement parts for those that are missing or unserviceable. Some of the bits are hard to find as this car is a very early model - a Series 1a I guess - and some changes were made around 1958 prior to the long wheel base early 101 series in ~1960 which then morphed into the true 101 series Guilias with the 1600 engine option. These then ran until the Duetto replacement in ~1966.
The hardest bit will be trying to hide the invoices from the long suffering wife :)
Chris
Chris,
Do you have a copy of Evan Green's book? Although you sound fully knowledgeable, this will help.
Best Regards
Phil
Phil,
I went a bit silly over the last 2 years or so researching these cars and bought a core of books on the model.
I've got copies of the following -
Giulietta Cars Shop Manual (an Alfa factory production)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1954-2004 (Giorgio NADA Editore)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (Giorgio NADA Editore) - in Italian
Alfa Romeo Veloce - The Racing Giuliettas (Hughes & Da Prato)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Gold Portfolio 1954 - 1965 (Brooklands Books)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Evan Wilson) (1982)
Evan Wilson's Giulietta Book (2010) Updated version of above.
All of these books are great resources.
I've also got a general Alfa library as well as a couple of shelves on other Italian makes (Lancia, Fiat, Abarth, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Cisitalia, OSCI etc.) plus a German section as well.
I'm not trying to show off - I enjoy reading and I like to be informed.
I also joined the Giulietta Register a while ago and get regular quarterly copies of Giuliettaletta which have a space in the large bookshelves that also contain about 20 years of Thoroughbred and Classic Cars and Classic and Sports Car.
My wife doesn't complain as she collects ladybeetle memorabilia with which she decorates parts of the house in plague proportions :)
Chris
Quote from: Phil Nash on June 07, 2013, 06:22:35 PM
Duttons has done a deal on the CTS RHD spider and offering it for $125k now!
Phil here it is
http://www.carsales.com.au/dealer/details/Alfa-Romeo-Giulia-1964/AGC-AD-13919992/?Cr=2
Great project Chris, such a great model to restore. Looking forward to updates.
Remembered your 1750 restoration a few years ago.
Do you have any photos of the 500 ? No pressure, and sorry for off topic but have 2 mates with restored 500's
one with a 69 F and the other with a 60 Nouva and have a bit of a soft spot for them.
Pep,
The 500 was a 1967 500F that I rebuilt as a 695 using a bored out 650 block (Fiat 126), a big valve head, 'sports' camshaft and a copper gasket. I also used the 126 synchro gearbox, fitted front disc brakes and a decent carburettor. It now goes up and down hills easily and is a huge hoot to drive.
The conversion was in the spirit of the Abarth kit parts available as an aftermarket option in the mid-60s, so it rather cheekily wears an Abarth badge.
Chris
Quote from: 1750GTV on June 07, 2013, 07:58:34 PM
Phil,
I went a bit silly over the last 2 years or so researching these cars and bought a core of books on the model.
I've got copies of the following -
Giulietta Cars Shop Manual (an Alfa factory production)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1954-2004 (Giorgio NADA Editore)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider (Giorgio NADA Editore) - in Italian
Alfa Romeo Veloce - The Racing Giuliettas (Hughes & Da Prato)
Sorry Chris, I meant Evan Wilson not Evan Green. Yes, you are well endowed with the good stuff for your project.
Onwards and upwards!
Best Regards
Phil
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Gold Portfolio 1954 - 1965 (Brooklands Books)
Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Evan Wilson) (1982)
Evan Wilson's Giulietta Book (2010) Updated version of above.
All of these books are great resources.
I've also got a general Alfa library as well as a couple of shelves on other Italian makes (Lancia, Fiat, Abarth, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Cisitalia, OSCI etc.) plus a German section as well.
I'm not trying to show off - I enjoy reading and I like to be informed.
I also joined the Giulietta Register a while ago and get regular quarterly copies of Giuliettaletta which have a space in the large bookshelves that also contain about 20 years of Thoroughbred and Classic Cars and Classic and Sports Car.
My wife doesn't complain as she collects ladybeetle memorabilia with which she decorates parts of the house in plague proportions :)
Chris
Good grief that is an absurd price for the '64 spider. Good luck to them if they can get it but considering the number of superb spiders that seem to come up for sale in the US, for considerably less, if I had the money and/or wasn't interested in going down the restoration road, I know where I would be looking for one.
My library is considerably more modest than yours Chris, but I too have a similar eclectic Italian section, as well as German and British sections. Thankfully while I made the compromise in getting rid of my Classic & Thoroughbred and Car magazine collection at least I still have my Classic and Sportscar/Supercar Classics magazine collection. Mind you the grumblings re even this lot have been heard but so far resisted.
Yep - that is a fairly amazing price. And you are right, there are several lovely looking Giulietta and Giulia Spiders and Coupes for sale in the US for much less, though without seeing them in the tin it'd be hard to value them exactly.
The other great resource that I forgot to mention is the excellent Car Disc series (http://www.cardisc.com/). You get all of the factory parts manuals, promotional material, user maintenance manuals etc. on CD. I have one for each of my old cars.
Chris
Thanks Chris
Nice boys you've got there !
Wow big block stroker donk, syncros and front discs on a 500 that's luxury !
It must climb hills with ease !
Recently 3 of us went out for a coffee in my mates 1960 model great fun
but we could've used those engine upgrades a bit of a challenge climbing mild gradients
but we travelled in style What a fantastic little car!
It's great fun to drive and emits a real bark from the twin pipe exhaust - un ragazzo arrabbiato.
I wrote it up here http://www.fiatforum.com/500-classic/222688-project-bambino.html and here http://www.fiatforum.com/500-classic/268589-695-engine-project.html
It is also fitted with a 123ignition so it starts, idles and runs well.
Chris
I met up with Barry Farr last Sunday in Noosa. Barry owns a 99+ point concourse winning 750F which he and his wife Dott had driven up from Sydney with the Thoroughbred Sports Car Club annual rally. Thirty classics of all makes and ages made the pilgrimage from Sydney to Noosa and I must say that some of these cars are just magnificent.
I took lots of time to look over Barry's beautiful 1958 Giulietta Veloce. It has been restored wonderfully and gives me some heart that one day mine will look just as good. He took 6 years to restore his car, though he was overseas with work for 3 of them. I've given myself 2 years and by the looks of it I'm starting with a much rougher car - maybe a bit ambitious, but I'll see how I go.
Barry keeps a personal register of Australian owned Giuliettas. It takes up just one A4 page and reinforces the rarity of these cars in Oz and the responsibility of owners to faithfully restore, use and maintain these classics. I'm up for it so long as the four horsemen of the restoration apocalypse stay at bay - lack of time, money, enthusiasm and endurance. I've got plenty of the latter two and hopefully sufficient time and cash to get the job done to a high standard.
Now where did I put that credit card ....
Chris
This one is a great opportunity. I know Mark Jansen and I trust him. Recommended.
http://www.oldtimeraustralia.com/wp_car_dealer/alfa-romeo-giulietta-spyder/
Additionally, Paul Rankin is doing a 100 pointer that is his car and will be for sale (I think). Chat with Paul. I have watched this one over the last year and it is being done right, on a rotisserie. No stories.
These are lovely cars to drive.
(Disclosure: I have no financial interest in either car).
Is that a landed, complianced price or exUSA ?
Chris, unless i am very much mistaken, i read the advert for the white giulietta as being here in Aus. If so i would think that is the landed price. Again, in respect of compliance, I am not sure I understand this, as surely such cars given their age don't require to be subject to compliance with the ADRs.
Quote from: Craig_m67 on June 30, 2013, 02:01:58 PM
Is that a landed, complianced price or exUSA ?
Landed price. No compliance applicable on a car of this age. Been there done that.
It's been a couple of months since I posted about this car and since then I've finished stripping it and delivered it to a trusted panelbeater/restorer.
New sills and crossmembers have arrived from the US and floor, rear deck and boot panels from Italy (that's a story in itself ...) this week. Hopefully the job will start in earnest in the next few weeks and I'll be posting photos as the transformation occurs.
I've also been collecting, cleaning, rustproofing, painting, powder coating and rebuilding many, many parts. As the bits are restored they move inside the house - my wife doesn't seem to mind yet - and the big bits I'm leaving to the various specialists - eg: engine, gearbox and diff.
I have had a new wiring loom made in the old style - it looks great and will add authenticity when installed.
The seats etc. are at a local upholsterer and are being redone in black leather with red piping to the original patterns and colours. I've not yet tackled the soft top. It is in pieces and will likely need specialist restoration.
I'm also collecting and restoring the brightware and jewellery, though I shouted myself new stainless bumpers.
So far my budget hasn't taken too much of a hit.
I'll keep you posted,
Chris
Now that I have all of the panels, work has started. The body has been cross-braced and suspended on a rotisserie to make the underside work easier.
Once the rotten and rusted parts have been removed it will be blasted down to clean steel so the new panels can be welded on. Interestingly, the body is full of spot welds about a centimeter apart - guess they didn't want it falling apart.
The gearbox, diff, rear axles, driveshaft, brakes, steering box & carby have all been cleaned and rebuilt over the last few months. The engine is next.
I've attached a couple of photos of the work underway.
Chris
A couple more ....
Hey Chris
Nice to see some progress on bringing this jewel back to life. I actually have to say I have seen far worse been saved. It is a long road to recovery but in the long run you will have something really special.
Look forward to more WIP photos and comments.
Quote from: 1750GTV on October 11, 2013, 09:35:32 PM
It's been a couple of months since I posted about this car and since then I've finished stripping it and delivered it to a trusted panelbeater/restorer.
Can I ask who that is.
Happy to have PM, I'm considering outsourcing the Duetto.
PM sent.
Chris
Quote from: Davidm1750 on November 28, 2013, 06:46:56 PM
Hey Chris
Nice to see some progress on bringing this jewel back to life. I actually have to say I have seen far worse been saved. It is a long road to recovery but in the long run you will have something really special.
Look forward to more WIP photos and comments.
I'll keep the photos coming as it all happens. I'm looking forward to driving it when it's finished but I'll be patient as I want the work done well.
I will be down in your neck of the woods next March to walk the South Coast Track. Looking forward to that too.
Chris
Hi Chris
Not a problem, totally understand where you are coming from. I am sure it will be rewarding experience.
I have done the South Coast Track many years ago. It sure is a spectacular walk/coastline. By all means if you want to catchup with us Tassie Alfisti while down here, just pm me and I am sure I could arrange something.
We had our Annual Club Display today and included in the lineup of lovely cars was the '58 750 Giulia Veloce Spider that I had previously mentioned. The owner ended up winning the Shannons Show and Shine trophy. It sure is a lovely car. I have some pics of it. Oh and btw the price I had previously thought he bought it for was incorrect. The rumoured price was somewhere off the mark. $65K not $25K ! But that still is not bad considering its condition.
I have just picked up your thread Chris, its looking good.
Mine looked like yours underneath, we had to replace all four sill layers and the floors after a bodgy US "resto". Mine is about to receive paint. If you need any help or sympathy, send me a pm!
Here is mine off the BB
http://www.alfabb.com/bb/forums/giulietta-giulia-1954-65/188571-giulia-spider-veloce-refresh.html
A couple of comments further to earlier posts. I find it very difficult to believe that the Rainsford car sold for $25k. The CTS/ Dutton car is not a Spider Veloce I think its a 101.19, that is a RHD Spider Normale. It is dressed to look like a Veloce.
Cheers
John
Thanks for your interest John. I've been quietly following your posts on the alfabb for quite a while and am very impressed with your attention to detail.
I sourced my sills from Texas (Lionel Velez) and the floor panels from Italy (Biondi Lamierati). Now the only part left to find is a replacement lower rear valance.
The 4 speed tunnel box and the diff were completely rebuilt by a local firm who specialise in veteran/vintage European cars and the engine will be done by a Giulietta Sprint owning mechanic on the Gold Coast. He has a couple of Sprints (races one) and has a reputation for good work.
Like you, I've got a fair bit of electroplating to be done which can wait until the early New Year when I hope to be a bit less busy at work.
As you and anyone else that has taken on a job like this knows, the journey is as much fun as the destination. I'm determined to do this right and hopefully end up with a beautifully restored early 750D which I can drive with pleasure.
I'll keep you posted.
Chris
Quote from: GG105 on December 01, 2013, 09:40:10 AM
I have just picked up your thread Chris, its looking good.
Mine looked like yours underneath, we had to replace all four sill layers and the floors after a bodgy US "resto". Mine is about to receive paint. If you need any help or sympathy, send me a pm!
Here is mine off the BB
http://www.alfabb.com/bb/forums/giulietta-giulia-1954-65/188571-giulia-spider-veloce-refresh.html
A couple of comments further to earlier posts. I find it very difficult to believe that the Rainsford car sold for $25k. The CTS/ Dutton car is not a Spider Veloce I think its a 101.19, that is a RHD Spider Normale. It is dressed to look like a Veloce.
Cheers
John
I had a look at this car and it is beautiful. The story I was given did not add up for me, but, I am not an expert. You need to do thorough due diligence on that car before paying the big $ IMHO. Caveat emptor.
Regards
Phil
Quote from: 1750GTV on December 01, 2013, 09:09:44 PM
Thanks for your interest John. I've been quietly following your posts on the alfabb for quite a while and am very impressed with your attention to detail.
I sourced my sills from Texas (Lionel Velez) and the floor panels from Italy (Biondi Lamierati). Now the only part left to find is a replacement lower rear valance.
The 4 speed tunnel box and the diff were completely rebuilt by a local firm who specialise in veteran/vintage European cars and the engine will be done by a Giulietta Sprint owning mechanic on the Gold Coast. He has a couple of Sprints (races one) and has a reputation for good work.
Like you, I've got a fair bit of electroplating to be done which can wait until the early New Year when I hope to be a bit less busy at work.
As you and anyone else that has taken on a job like this knows, the journey is as much fun as the destination. I'm determined to do this right and hopefully end up with a beautifully restored early 750D which I can drive with pleasure.
I'll keep you posted.
Chris
Hi Chris
I am very impressed with the attention to detail. We are only custodians of these wonderful cars. You have a little jewel (sorry). Good luck and keep us informed.
Best Regards
Phil Nash
Xmas and the New Year breaks are over now and it's time to get busy on this car.
The floors have been removed from the front (under the seats), middle (under the spare wheel) and rear (the boot) of the car. Both outer and middle sills have also been removed leaving the only support supplied from the centre transmission tunnel, the inner sills and the bracing that was welded on prior to removal. This will be enough to prevent 'banana-ing' of the remnant skeleton. Next week the car goes to be media blasted - hopefully no more major problems will be found, but you never now ...
The bonnet, boot lid and passenger doors are all in very good shape. The drivers door needs major repairs as the lower 10cm or so is very rusty.
Both front and rear cross members are in reasonable shape and can be repaired. Everything above about a 10cm line around the car is in excellent condition and reassures me that this rebuild, though undoubtedly a very major (and expensive) job, will be worth it - or at least, it will be to me. I'm still chasing a few minor bits from Canada, Italy and the US though if they do not turn up, they can be made locally.
So far very little bog has been found though the nose has had a bit of a biff in times gone by. There is lots of lead fill in these cars, probably an original 'option' though in general the workmanship evident from the Pininfarina factory is excellent.
The seats have been stripped, the frames blasted and repaired (very little damage), then rustproofed and painted awaiting reupholstering.
Mechanically, the last major job is the engine and it will be rebuilt when I find suppliers for a few of the rarer parts (eg: top timing chain).
I'm also now hunting for accessories - jack, toolkit etc. Wish me luck as these items are rare, closely held and when found, very expensive. A few months ago, I sourced an original Italian language Instruction Manual.
I've restored a few cars over the years and have always bought runners, generally staying away from basket case cars that have been stripped but are 'complete'. I couldn't help myself with this one as I've always wanted a Giulietta, was willing to invest some time finding the missing bits and am a bit of a masochist at heart :) So far I haven't been disappointed though I must say that having a tolerant wife is a major relief as the house is festooned with all manner of cleaned and rebuilt parts.
A couple of photos of the skeleton are attached with hopefully more to come in the next month or so.
Chris
Work is progressing slowly.
The body has been bead-blasted and coated in primer to prevent surface rusting and the only panel I'm currently chasing is the rear lower valance as the one on the car is full of pinholes. I have everything else - it looks like a large meccano set.
As the paint came off, I noticed an amazing amount of lead filler in these bodies, presumably from new. Nowadays there are better ways of finishing a car body.
I've attached a couple of photos - it looks much better in the photos than in the tin.
Next job on my list is the engine rebuild. I've elected to leave this with an expert rather than attempting it myself and making a mess of it.
Chris
While the body work slowly progresses, the engine is being assembled.
All parts have been blasted, the flywheel lightened by about 500g and sportier camshafts sourced. The inlet ports on the sand cast head have been cleaned and polished and once the clutch assembly arrives it will all be balanced.
Chris
More cleaned bits
Chris
Looks great! Well done! :)
It's been quite a while since I wrote anything about this restoration largely because not much has been happening. That all changed about 6 weeks ago with the measuring, shaping and cutting of about 80 patch pieces and panels.
Over the last month the main cross members, chassis rails and suspension pickup points were all repaired/replaced and strengthened.
Next the sills were replaced after the car was suitably braced.
The boot floor and new rear valance were installed.
Lots of old filler was removed from one rear fender where there had been previous accident damage and the panel repaired properly.
Work will begin on the remaining floors and the nose section next week.
The car was very rusty and it takes a lot of time cutting, repairing and replacing the fiddly little bits - a job made more difficult because of all of the curves. The guys use English Wheels to shape the parts and they are very good at it, but even so, it is very labour intensive.
They have also been taking lots of photos as they go along though most are closeups so you tend to lose the context and scale when viewed in isolation.
When the body is finished, work will start on the doors, bonnet and boot lids all of which need attention.
It's nice to see it all looking good.
I've attached a couple of photos of the pre-repair front and rear jack points and a shot of the repairs so far.
Chris
A couple more before photos
Restored sill on the RHS and sections of new floor.
Slow work ...
Chris
Sure it may be slow, but slow and steady wins for the repaired sections are looking good, and sure beats rust ! Keep going Chris for eventually she is going to be sweet.
Thanks David.
The work that they are doing is high quality and methodical. Apart from the sills and floors over 70 patch panels have been painstakingly fabricated, labelled and photographed. It's like a big jigsaw puzzle.
It still looks a bit rough at the moment and will do so until all of the major parts are welded in.
When it's done I'm hoping to have a fine example of this model in factory fresh condition. If it had been in better condition, I'd have just done a recommissioning, but it was a rusty basket case delivered to me in a thousand bits, so a full restoration was required.
I'll post more photos as they come along.
Chris
Engine is also slowly coming together ...
Chris
Engine is done and the floors are in the car.
Getting along with it now.
Chris
Cripes, that's lovely!
Has it been painted or just vapor blasted?
Both - vapour blasted first then coated with a clear heat-proof lacquer (Dupli-Color High Heat Clear with Ceramic).
The guys at Classic Carbs (www.classiccarbs.com.au) did the rebuild. They are a Father/Son-in-law team who have a great passion for Alfas, particularly 750/101 Giuliettas.
Chris
Hey Craig, I am so impressed by just how well the engine came up.
I need to get a set of webers I have for my Giulia Ti rebuilt so it is really good to see the quality of their work. Thanks for the weblink to them.
They did my engine too. I was very happy with their work. Its coming along very nicely Chris!
Thanks. Nothing that a mountain of cash can't fix ... :o
Chris
I seemed to recall that you too might have used these guys for yours Derek as well. Out of interest, can you guys give a roughish indication as to what to expect the cost of restoring a set of webers might be.
Final photos of the engine.
Hopefully I pick it up next weekend.
Chris
... and the rest.
Merry Xmas,
Chris
The instruments are now cleaned, checked and restored.
I still have the original US instruments but as they were in a very sad state, I decided to source some good European ones instead. The ones I finally bought were in good condition but needed cleaning, new chrome and new dial faces.
I'm leaning toward converting the car to European specification as I also have the correct tail lights, head lights, front indicators, decals and now, instruments. I think the only other difference was the presence of 1/4 windows though I've seen lots of original first series European cars without them.
Chris
The underside is finished.
Now they move to the hammer & dolly work on the upper side of the body.
It's starting to look like a car again ...
Chris
A fantastic effort thus far and my sincere congratulations.
Keep up the great work.
Best Regards
Phil
Thanks Phil.
I must say that at the moment I feel more like a bemused onlooker. Most of the work is way beyond my meagre capabilities and is being completed by competent specialists. When the time comes I will do the reassembly, but until then, I'm just handing out wads of cash ...
It's not a 'money's no object' restoration, but I am determined to do this only once and do it well. My wife is a little concerned because I may have already spied my next project ;D
Chris
Hi Chris
A little inspiration for you. I went down to the Italian Fiesta yesterday and this little veloce gem turned up. I had fun with the Iphone, trying different photographic modes to capture it. Cheers Dave
And one more pic for the fun of it.
Hopefully one day mine will look as nice. Mine isn't a Veloce, it's a Normale though the engine has been tweaked a bit to deliver more power than a standard Veloce but without the temperament, so I guess it's more like an Abnormale.
Thanks for posting the photos.
I'll take a few more photos of my car soon - it's reached the stage of door/bonnet/bootlid repairs now.
Chris
It's been a while since I posted anything about my Giulietta mainly because the project came to a bit of a halt when the guy doing most of the work had to have open heart surgery. He's OK now, back on his feet and working away feverishly again.
The body of the car is now complete and in primer. It will then be undercoated, rubbed down again and undercoated for a second time.
The doors are being repaired and the bonnet and bootlid will follow.
A couple of photos attached.
Chris
looks awesome so far - well done :D
Fitting a few trim bits - all OK so far.
They are the original parts and need final polishing.
I'll try the headlight buckets on the weekend.
The paint has arrived - 10litres of it. Hopefully will get applied soon.
You can't hurry quality ...
Chris
Great stuff...glad to hear the chap who is helping is back on his feet...
Cheers
Phil
First blush of colour.
Getting closer ...
Looking good Chris.
It's now in my shed and ready for the 'refit'
Chris
Some of the major parts that were replaced - both sills (all three parts), rear valance, front floors L & R, rear floor, boot floor plus several rotten structural bits of the cross members and chassis rails.
Big job ...
Chris
Haven't posted for a few months - been busy at work ...
So far I've fitted and tested the wiring loom and am waiting on a few minor bits before it's finished.
Lights fitted and tested, electric fuel pump conversion, heater and windscreen wiper all OK, flasher unit and indicators.
Front and rear bumpers checked for fit prior to polishing.
A lot of the shiny trim also checked for fit prior to rechroming.
Fuel tank fitted (bugger of a job). Even found the correct period Copliglia clamps.
Many of these jobs are very fiddly, made worse by trying to locate new parts. For example, the headlight adjusters for this model Carello headlight buckets are very hard to find and you can't complete the headlights without them.
Similarly trying to find the correct Copiglia and Romablok clamps.
Hydraulics are next. Got my pipe bending and double flaring tools plus a heap of Cunifer brake line and connectors ready to go.
Still having fun :)
Chris
PS: Will try to post a few more photos. I keep getting a file size error even though the files are quite small ...
A couple more photos.
Chris
Last one.
Chris
I would like to make contact with alfa club member(1750 GTV) As I am also restoring my 1957 750 spider in bendigo victoria.note at a slow rate,mine had been dismantled before my perchace it is also LHD.I would be keen to meet and talk with interest at heart.wallrix1@gmail.com
Hi Anthony,
Post a couple of photos of your Spider here so we can see your progress/problems.
Chris
Front suspension going in. Not very exciting I know, but progress.
New ball joints, new stainless grease nipples, new tierods, new bearings, new bushes, new shockies, in fact, new just about everything.
I was thinking about installing one of the many 'sport' suspensions, but ended up keeping it all standard.
At the moment I work on the car about 3 hours a week, so it's slow going but great fun.
Before and after photos attached.
Chris
Starting to make real progress.
Electrics all in and tested.
Hydraulics remade, rebuilt and reinstalled.
Suspension in, checked and adjusted.
Engine in. Clutch and gearbox next.
It now stands on its own four wheels again.
Chris
looking great Chris, well done!
Cheers
John
Thanks John.
This weekend saw the clutch, gearbox and tailshaft fitted. All the major mechanical parts are now in place.
The gearbox is the original 4 speed tunnel case that uses non-EP oil and it was stripped and rebuilt with new bearings sometime ago. Mercifully, the synchros were not worn as they are expensive and difficult to find.
Lots of fiddly little bits to go. Tool roll and jack strapped in to get them off the shelves.
Chris
Meant to attach this one as well ...
My 1300cc engine has been rebuilt incorporating a few performance enhancements - lightened flywheel, bigger oil pump, performance camshafts and all balanced prior to refitting. As a result I've ditched the rather troublesome Solex carburettor and fitted a period correct 36DCD Weber. All round I'm told that it is a much more reliable carby with better performance.
The Weber is taller than the Solex and the original air filter + adapter is therefore too tall and won't allow the bonnet to close. In its place I've fitted a flush fit Fispa filter which is now the correct height. I believe these filter were used by 1950s Fiat and Ferraris. I still have the original refurbished carby and air filter if any future owner wishes to return the car to stock appearance.
The fun continues. Radiator and exhaust next and maybe then a test drive ...
Merry Xmas to all,
Chris
Need one of the 3 lugged wingnuts that early 105s got on their filter cans - same as 50s Ferraris.
It did come with a standard double lug cast wingnut with one lug broken off.
If I ever see either another double lug or a triple like the photo I'll replace the modern nut - though you can take it all too far ... :)
Chris
Franjo Mokina makes reproductions of the 3 ear wingnuts... :D
Ordered.
Thanks ;D
Three ear wingnut fitted - even if it's the wrong air filter, it now looks correct. One for the purists.
Trial fitted the windscreen today. It's a tricky affair with separate rubbers for each of the four sides, two chrome pillars that bolt onto the body of the car and separate top and bottom trims. The front door seals are also separate. The screen has a couple of shallow wiper scratches on it that I'll try to polish out. Otherwise it's in good condition.
Does anyone have a favourite glass polishing kit or compound that they'd recommend?
Chris
Restored and recored radiator installed today.
Only need a few minor things in the engine bay, and an exhaust system, and I'm ready to run the engine for the first time in 44 years.
Still got a lot of trim bits to fit though.
Chris
Been away for a while so I thought it was about time I posted an update.
After 5 years the car is now mobile though needs a few things done for completion - interior, windscreen, folding top, exhaust etc. - so it'll be a while yet ...
The attached are a couple of photos that I took yesterday after a drive around the forecourt of the shed complex.
Coming along OK, I guess.
Chris
Hi Chris
She is looking absolutely beautiful. Have read your post from start to finish and the work and effort in organizing the restoration of your car is a credit to you. The repairs of bodywork look to be of the highest standard and the sourcing of parts for a 60 or so year old car would have been a challenge, at the best of times. I bet you can’t wait to have her all finished and back on the road so you can enjoy the true driving experience that only these classic cars provide.
cheers
bonno