Alfa Spider

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sjw ferrari

Original Poster:

218 posts

219 months

Monday 8th May 2006
quotequote all
I'm looking for an Alfa spider 96-99 model, the prices seem all over the place!!, is there any spec change during those years??,does the cam belt need changing on time and or mileage?? {cost}??, ideally i'd like a blue, black or silver with leather under 70000 miles for under £5k,any info about any for sale or any thing i should look for please let me know.

sjw ferrari

Original Poster:

218 posts

219 months

Wednesday 10th May 2006
quotequote all
Dave Brand said:
TwinSpark (2-litre) engines need more frequent timing belt changes than Alfa's recommended 72,000 miles - the consensus seems to be 36,000. It is essential that the tensioners are changed with the belts, as these are the cause of many belt failures.

Listen for a 'diesel' sound on startup - it's caused by wear in the variator. Not a serious problem if it only lasts a couple of seconds, but it will need replacing eventually.

For a full belt, tensioner & variator replacement budget around £350 at a specialist.

Other points to check, based on experience with a 145 which has a lot in common:



Look for wear in the inner bushes on the lower wishbones - they don't last long. About £150 to have both sides replaced.

Airbag warning light may come on - usually caused by connectors under the seats. Easily fixed, but if the light's on it won't reset itself - a reset cost me about £20.

Thaks for all your replys, i just need to find 1 now, if anyone knows of 1 please let me know, thanks



>> Edited by sjw ferrari on Wednesday 10th May 18:10