🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

500

Year:

1968

Model Generation:

Nuova 500 (1957-1975)

Chassis Code:

Type 110F (for 500 L, F)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Small city car, iconic Italian design, affordable mobility.

Competitors:

Volkswagen Beetle, Renault 4, Citroën 2CV, Mini Cooper.

Unique Selling Points:

Compact size, distinctive styling, nimble handling, surprisingly practical for its dimensions, cultural icon status.

Diy Advantage:

Enables owners to perform repairs and maintenance independently, saving on mechanic costs and ensuring quality of work through direct involvement.

Knowledge Transfer:

Provides valuable tips and in-depth understanding of vehicle intricacies for those lacking technical knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Service and Repair

Specific Systems Mentioned:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Axle

Estimated Page Count:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and troubleshooting of the engine. Includes cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing, lubrication, cooling, and more.

Fuel System:

Detailed coverage of the fuel pump, carburetor (e.g., Solex 26/26), fuel lines, fuel tank, and associated components. Includes adjustment and troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Information on ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, ignition coil, and wiring. Troubleshooting for starting issues.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair of the manual gearbox, clutch assembly, flywheel, and shift linkages. Includes fluid specifications and checks.

Brake System:

Coverage of hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, brake drums, brake fluid, and bleeding procedures. Adjustment of handbrake.

Suspension Front:

Details on independent front suspension, kingpins, shock absorbers, and related components. Wheel alignment specifications may be included.

Suspension Rear:

Information on the rear axle, semi-elliptic leaf springs, and shock absorbers. Adjustment and inspection procedures.

Steering System:

Coverage of the steering box, steering column, tie rods, and steering arms. Includes lubrication and adjustment.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of the 12V electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, tail lights, indicators), horn, wipers, and dashboard instruments.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, aiding in troubleshooting and component identification.

Chassis Body:

Information on body construction, doors, panels, seats, interior trim, and corrosion protection. May include jacking points and basic body repairs.

Cooling System:

Details on the air-cooled engine's cooling shrouds, fan, and airflow management. Includes inspection of cooling fins.

Lubrication:

Periodic lubrication points and recommended grease/oil types for chassis components, steering, and suspension.

Emission Control:

Information pertaining to emissions control systems relevant to the 1968 model year, likely minimal but may cover basic PCV or air injection if applicable.

Maintenance:

Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, ignition system tuning, brake adjustments, lubrication, and general inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, braking, and electrical issues. Symptom-based fault finding.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.

Refurbishment Renovation:

Guidance suitable for restoring or renovating the vehicle, including disassembly and reassembly of various parts.

Depth:

Comprehensive - Covers everything from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for both novice DIYers and experienced mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Specifications:

PDF. Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip mentioned for use.

Quality:

Digital reproduction quality can vary, but the aim is for clear, readable text and diagrams.

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 2-cylinder, inline OHV

Engine Code:

110F.000

Displacement:

499.5 cc (0.5 Liter)

Horsepower:

Approx. 17-18 hp (DIN) at 4,000 rpm (for standard 500 F model)

Torque:

Approx. 33 Nm (24 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm (for standard 500 F model)

Carburetor:

Single Solex 26/26 MB or similar

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (historically leaded, but unleaded with appropriate octane is now standard)

Type:

Air-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed within manual (e.g., 1st: ~3.57, 2nd: ~2.24, 3rd: ~1.52, 4th: ~1.04, Reverse: ~4.33)

Clutch:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch

Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2970 mm (116.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1295 mm (51.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1840 mm (72.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 470-510 kg (1036-1124 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 850 kg (1874 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A (No modern crash testing performed on this model era)

Braking:

Hydraulic drum brakes on all wheels.

Steering:

Worm and roller steering system.

Seatbelts:

Optional or rudimentary seatbelts; not standard on all models of this era.

Construction:

Monocoque chassis with integral body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional period-correct radio, typically AM band.

Features:

None by modern standards. Basic driver controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Inspect/replace every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).

Ignition Timing:

Check and adjust every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).

Greasing:

Lubricate grease points (kingpins, tie rod ends) every 5,000 km (3,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

API SF/SG or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check manual for precise recommendation based on climate).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Rust:

Susceptible to rust, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and door bottoms. Requires regular inspection and treatment.

Engine Overheating:

Air-cooled engine; ensure cooling shrouds are intact and airflow is not obstructed. Check fan belt tension.

Carburetor Issues:

Can be sensitive to dirt and require regular cleaning and adjustment of the Solex carburetor.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch can wear over time and require adjustment or replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (FIAT)

Predecessor:

Fiat 600 Multipla (though a different segment)

Variants:

500 'Normale', 500 Sport, 500 D, 500 F, 500 L (Lusso), 500 R. The 1968 model typically refers to the 500 F or 500 L.

Production Years Model:

Nuova 500: 1957-1975

Manufacturing Locations:

Turin, Italy; licensed production in many other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Cultural Impact:

Recognized as an icon of Italian design and post-war economic boom. Featured in films and art.

User Satisfaction:

High enthusiast following for its charm, simplicity, and driving experience.