🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

500

Year:

1957

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Primarily professional technicians, but also suitable for experienced DIY mechanics with basic automotive knowledge.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners with factory-level knowledge for efficient and accurate maintenance and repair of their 1957 Fiat 500.

Comparison To Paper Manuals:

Offers the same comprehensive content as a physical manual, with the added benefit of instant access and digital searchability.

Content Richness:

Includes step-by-step procedures, critical specifications, illustrations, disassembly/assembly guides, and much more, mirroring factory service manuals and owner's manuals.

Learning Style:

Teaches readers what factory-trained technicians know, facilitating informed decision-making for vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Overhaul:

Comprehensive engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all 1957 Fiat 500 variants.

Fuel System:

Detailed guidance on carburetor (likely Solex or Dell'Orto variants for the era), fuel pump, fuel lines, and tank maintenance and repair.

Ignition System:

Spark plug, coil, distributor, points, condenser, and timing adjustment procedures.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and coolant flow diagnostics and repair.

Exhaust System:

Muffler, exhaust pipes, and heat shields inspection and replacement.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, differential service, and driveshaft maintenance.

Brakes System:

Drum brake adjustment, shoe replacement, cylinder servicing, and hydraulic system bleeding procedures.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (e.g., kingpins, bushings), steering box adjustment, and alignment procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery service, starter motor, generator/alternator (depending on early models), lighting, and dashboard instrumentation troubleshooting.

Bodywork And Chassis:

Panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, and basic structural repairs.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and general inspection checklists.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues.

Component Disassembly And Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, servicing, and reinstalling all major vehicle components.

Adjustment Procedures:

Detailed instructions for adjusting ignition timing, valve clearance, brakes, clutch, and carburetor settings.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Critical technical data, torque values, clearances, and wear limits required for accurate repairs.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Designed for professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts, covering in-depth diagnostics beyond basic troubleshooting.

Repair Complexity:

Covers everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Understanding Concepts:

Assumes basic knowledge of electrical and mechanical principles, providing detailed guidance for those with some familiarity.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Viewing Features:

Zoom IN/OUT capability for detailed examination of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Digital (PDF Download)

Paper Equivalent:

High-quality digital replica, equivalent to factory service manual paper quality.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, two-cylinder, inline (or boxer, depending on early variations and specific engine codes).

Engine Displacement:

Typically around 479cc to 500cc for the 1957 model year (specific engine codes would dictate exact displacement, e.g., Type 110F).

Horsepower Output:

Approximately 13-15 hp (DIN), depending on the specific engine tune and variant.

Torque Output:

Low but adequate for its purpose, typically in the range of 25-30 Nm.

Carburetor Type:

Single barrel downdraft carburetor, likely a Solex 26/28 PICT or similar, requiring precise adjustment.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (likely requiring a lead substitute or lower octane fuel than modern standards).

Ignition Timing:

Critical for optimal performance and engine longevity, requiring precise adjustment via timing marks and a timing light.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Four-speed manual synchromesh transmission (or synchromesh on higher gears only for earlier models).

Optional Transmission:

None offered for the 1957 model year.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Likely API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for specific Fiat specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2970 mm (117 in)

Width:

Approx. 1270 mm (50 in)

Height:

Approx. 1270 mm (50 in, depending on roof type)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1840 mm (72.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 400-450 kg (880-990 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly specified in a modern sense, but designed for a few occupants and light cargo.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No modern crash test data available for this era of vehicle. Safety features were rudimentary by today's standards.

Braking System:

Hydraulically operated drum brakes on all four wheels. Manual adjustment and maintenance are critical.

Steering Safety:

Mechanical steering box with manual adjustment; requires regular inspection of linkages.

Seat Belts:

Not standard equipment on 1957 models; aftermarket installation might be covered in bodywork sections if applicable.

Body Structure:

Unitary construction with emphasis on lightness rather than crash energy management.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional factory-fitted or dealer-installed AM radio, typically with a single speaker. Manual covers radio installation/repair.

Advanced Features:

None. Technology was focused on basic mechanical reliability and functionality.

Modern Connectivity:

Not applicable for the 1957 model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or as specified in the manual, depending on operating conditions.

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of suspension components, steering linkages, and wheel bearings is essential, often at every oil change or at specified intervals.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended at regular intervals (e.g., 10,000-15,000 km or annually) to maintain engine performance and efficiency.

Engine Oil Specification:

Typically SAE 20W-50 or SAE 30 mineral oil, with specific API classifications as per Fiat's recommendations for air-cooled engines (refer to manual for exact spec).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (low boiling point, hygroscopic, requires regular flushing). Ensure compatibility with older seals.

Coolant:

If a water-cooled variant existed or for early models, a suitable anti-freeze mixture would be required. The 1957 model is typically air-cooled, so this is generally not applicable unless a specific version had a heating system component.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors are sensitive to dirt and wear, requiring regular cleaning and precise adjustment of idle speed and mixture.

Ignition System Reliability:

Points and condenser wear, coil failure, and distributor cap/rotor issues can lead to starting problems and misfires.

Oil Leaks:

Common due to age and material degradation of seals and gaskets, particularly around the engine and transmission.

Brake System Maintenance:

Drum brake adjustment, cylinder seals, and brake shoe wear are critical for safe operation and require frequent checks.

Rust And Corrosion:

A common issue on older vehicles, especially in areas exposed to moisture. Panel integrity and underbody condition require regular inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat History:

Fiat, founded in 1899, is one of the oldest automotive manufacturers in the world, known for its innovative and affordable small cars.

Fiat 500 Origins:

The original Fiat 500, nicknamed 'Topolino' (little mouse), was produced from 1936 to 1955. The 1957 model represents the first generation of the rear-engined Fiat Nuova 500.

1957 Nuova 500 Introduction:

The Nuova 500, designed by Dante Giacosa, was launched in 1957 as a compact, economical city car, becoming an icon of Italian post-war motoring.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Turin, Italy.

Production Period 1957:

The 1957 model year marks the initial production run of the iconic Nuova 500 series.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Iconic Status:

The Fiat 500 is globally recognized as an automotive icon and a symbol of Italian design and culture.

Reliability Reputation:

Known for its simplicity and robustness when properly maintained, though prone to wear with age.

Factory Approval:

This manual is designed to provide information equivalent to or surpassing factory service manuals of its era.