308 service question from a newbie

[Car Mad Dave]

Hi all,

It's pretty clear from reading the many varied and interesting posts, there is a wealth of information and views out there. Well, I hope someone can help a newbie!

After a bit of research and umming and arrhing I have decided to go for a 308 GTB - love the iconic design etc. etc. Recently I have found a immaculate GTB QV but looking at the service history its clear the car hasn't been used much recently. It last had a major service and cambelt change just under 4 years ago with an annual service a year later. However, it has done less than 1,000 miles in the entire period - mileage is now at 35k.

My immediate reaction is that the first thing I should do (assuming I buy) is get a major service and cambelt change done - or ask the dealer to do it. I guess the mileage does not warrant the work but the time elapsed means at least an annual service is needed, if not a major one and belt change.

Any views on what is needed gratefully received.

Thanks, CMD

[AndrewW-G]

The conflicting advice offered by Ferrari over 308 belt service intervals has been debated on all the major Ferrari sites for some years, the official recomendation by Ferrari in America is 5 years for a belt change. I'd suggest that when you have the car inspected ask for the condition of the tensioners to be included, it tends not to be the belts themseleves that go, but the tensioners seize, which then takes out the belts and then cablam you need an engine rebuild

If your inspection comes back OK, my suggestion would be to use the car for the rest of the season and figure a belt and tensioner change into your winter maintanence budget (approx £300)

Given the age of the cars I'd be far more concerend with hidden corrosion and dodgy electrics

[Car Mad Dave]

Thanks and very helpful.

You also raise the very important point of an inspection by a Ferrari specialist. On this point, can anyone recommend someone based in the North East as this is where the car is based.

CMD

[AndrewW-G]

If you give the owners club a call on 01485 544500 They will be able to recomend somebody to you or try Dave Walton on 01388 7631136 (Daves based in Co Durham)

Edited by AndrewW-G on Wednesday 19th August 21:51

[Car Mad Dave]

Thanks again. I must be getting tired, I meant to say North West!!

[AndrewW-G]

Owners club again to recomend . . . . . . . plenty of options depending on where in the nort west it is, R&D Eccles & Manchester, CSO Chester & North Wales, Italia Autosport \ John Poggson Yorkshire, JMH Manchester, AE Performance Knutsford / manchester. if its near Chester I'll do it for free

[Car Mad Dave]

Andrew, the cars in Preston so probably a bit far for you to travel. I'll contact the OC and contacts you mentioned but let me know if your interested. Cheers.