🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Alfa Romeo

Model:

Alfetta

Year:

1979

Internal Model Code:

Type 116

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Alfa Romeo Alfetta represented a significant step for Alfa Romeo, introducing a sophisticated transaxle layout and advanced styling for its era. It competed in the executive and sports sedan segments.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 80, and Lancia Beta.

Transaxle:

Rear-mounted gearbox and differential provided near-perfect weight distribution, enhancing handling dynamics.

Styling:

Designed by Franco Scaglione (for the sedan) and Pininfarina (for the coupe), the Alfetta featured a sleek, aerodynamic, and modern design for the 1970s.

Handling:

Renowned for its excellent road holding and sporty driving characteristics, typical of Alfa Romeo heritage.

Utility:

A crucial resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair the Alfa Romeo Alfetta 1979 accurately and efficiently, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Repair and Service

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Experienced DIY Mechanics

Estimated Pages:

High (typical factory service manuals for this era are extensive)

Type:

Repair Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Coverage:

Designed to be a factory-level service manual, covering all aspects necessary for a complete repair and maintenance program.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage of engine systems, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and troubleshooting for various Alfetta engine configurations.

Transmission:

Detailed procedures for manual and potentially automatic transmission service, including clutch, gearbox, and differential maintenance.

Drivetrain:

Focus on the transaxle layout (gearbox and differential at the rear), including driveshafts, CV joints, and rear axle assembly.

Suspension:

In-depth coverage of front (double wishbone) and rear (De Dion axle or similar) suspension components, including alignment specifications.

Steering:

Service and repair of the steering system, including steering rack and linkage.

Brakes:

Detailed information on brake system components, including hydraulic system, disc brakes (likely all around for the Alfetta), and potential ABS systems if fitted.

Electrical:

Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of ignition, lighting, and accessories.

Fuel System:

Information on fuel delivery, carburetion (likely Weber or Solex), fuel pumps, and fuel tank service.

Cooling System:

Maintenance and repair of the engine cooling system, including radiator, thermostat, and water pump.

Exhaust System:

Information on exhaust manifold, pipes, and mufflers.

Bodywork:

Procedures for body panel adjustments, minor repairs, and trim removal/installation.

HVAC:

Service and maintenance of the heating and ventilation system.

Engine Management:

Details on ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), fuel delivery, and cooling system management.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.

Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.

Repair:

Detailed repair instructions for a wide range of mechanical and electrical components.

Specifications:

Inclusion of critical technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and tolerances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for easy system tracing and fault diagnosis.

Rebuilds:

Comprehensive instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including component specifications and tolerances.

Torque Specs:

Specific torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics, intended for factory-trained technicians but accessible to advanced DIYers.

Diagnostic Tools:

While not explicitly listing specialized tools, the manual implies the use of common automotive diagnostic equipment for electrical testing and mechanical measurements.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution PDF, fully printable with zoom in/out capability.

Printability:

Full Printable

Binding:

Digital (PDF)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC

Displacement:

Commonly 1.8L (1779cc) and 2.0L (1962cc). The 1979 model year likely offered both, with the 2.0L being prevalent.

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approximately 130 hp (DIN) at 5900 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific tune)

Torque 2.0L:

Approximately 178 Nm (131 lb-ft) at 3000 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific tune)

Carburetion:

Typically twin Weber 40 DCNF or Dell'Orto DHLA carburetors for the 2.0L engine.

Code Example:

AR00538 (example for 2.0L)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

3-Speed Automatic (less common, available on some models)

Layout:

Transaxle design with gearbox and differential integrated into a single unit at the rear axle.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan and 2-door Coupe

Curb Weight Sedan:

Approximately 1200-1300 kg (2645-2866 lbs), depending on engine and equipment.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic for the era, typically comprising an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player option. Speakers mounted in doors or dashboard.

Features:

Limited by modern standards. Features like power steering were often optional. ABS was not common in 1979.

Features:

No electronic connectivity features as understood today. Mechanical linkages for most controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact intervals.

Tune Up:

Spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, and carburetor synchronization recommended at regular intervals, likely every 10,000-15,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SF or SG classification, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50. Manual will confirm exact specification and capacity (approx. 4.5 liters for 2.0L).

Gearbox Oil:

GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual will confirm exact specification and capacity (transaxle oil, approx. 2.5-3 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify type and capacity.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify capacity.

Rust:

Common for cars of this era, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around windows. Early inspection and preventative treatment are crucial.

Carburetor Tuning:

Twin carburetors can require careful balancing and tuning for optimal performance and fuel economy. Manual provides essential guidance.

Electrical Gremlins:

Like many Italian cars of the period, electrical systems can be prone to minor issues if not maintained. Wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable.

Transaxle Clunk:

Some models may develop a clunk from the transaxle, often related to universal joints or differential mounts. Manual provides inspection procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Alfa Romeo has a long and storied history in motorsport and producing sporty, driver-focused road cars, emphasizing performance and distinctive Italian styling.

Introduction:

The Alfetta was introduced in 1972 as a replacement for the Giulia sedan, featuring a more modern design and advanced mechanicals.

Updates:

The 1979 model year represents a refined version of the Alfetta, often incorporating minor styling tweaks and mechanical improvements over earlier iterations.

Production Years:

1972-1984 (Sedan and GT Coupe)