Market Niche:
Microcar segment, post-war European economic recovery vehicle.
Competitors:
Fiat 500, Messerschmitt KR200, Goggomobil, Heinkel Kabine.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Unique front-opening door, compact size, fuel efficiency, accessible price point.
Customer Benefit:
Enables owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and promoting self-sufficiency.
Applicable Years:
1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962
Models Covered:
All Isetta models, engine variants, transmission types, and trim levels.
File Format:
Digital Downloadable (PDF)
Accessibility:
Printable (single page, chapter, or full manual), downloadable to PC, MAC, tablets, and smartphones.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by original manufacturer documentation, typically extensive for workshop manuals.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, carburetor service, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive, shift linkage.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake shoes, drums, master cylinder, brake pedal assembly.
Steering:
Steering column, steering box, tie rods, linkages.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, generator, battery, lighting system, instrumentation, horn.
Bodywork:
Door mechanism (front-opening), window mechanisms, body panel repair, trim, interior components.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common problems, fault finding procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine and gearbox rebuilds.
Adjustment:
Carburetor adjustment, ignition timing adjustment, brake adjustments.
Depth:
Detailed technical information covering all aspects of service and repair, suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Single-cylinder, four-stroke gasoline engine (BMW 600 variants), or two-cylinder, two-stroke gasoline engine (Italian ISO variants).
Displacement Bmw:
582 cc (BMW 600)
Displacement Iso:
197 cc to 250 cc (Italian ISO variants)
Horsepower Bmw:
Approx. 19.5 hp (BMW 600)
Horsepower Iso:
Approx. 9.5 to 16 hp (ISO variants)
Carburetor:
Single downdraft carburetor (e.g., Solex)
Ignition Type:
Battery and coil ignition, with distributor.
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
As per manual, generally every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 or SAE 30 for air-cooled engines, depending on ambient temperature. (Manual will specify exact grades).
Transmission Oil Type:
Gear oil, typically GL-4 rated. Manual will specify viscosity and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. (Manual will confirm specific type).
Engine Reliability:
Two-stroke variants can be prone to carbon buildup and require specific oil/fuel mixtures. BMW four-stroke engines are generally more robust.
Door Mechanism:
Hinges and latches can wear over time, affecting door sealing and operation.
Electrical System:
Wiring can degrade due to age; maintenance of charging system (generator, regulator) is crucial.
Fuel System:
Carburetor may require regular cleaning and adjustment; fuel lines can deteriorate.
Common Part Reference:
Manual provides specific part numbers for genuine BMW Isetta components where available.
Manufacturer:
BMW AG (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG), Germany.
Origins:
Developed by Iso Rivolta (Italy) and licensed by BMW starting in 1955.
Bmw Variant:
BMW 600 (1957-1959), featuring a four-stroke twin-cylinder engine derived from BMW motorcycles.
Production Period:
1955-1962 (various iterations and licenses).
Manufacturing Sites:
Munich, Germany (BMW); Milan, Italy (Iso); also licensed in Spain, France, and the UK.
