Positioning:
A comprehensive workshop manual for the luxury Italian sedan, Alfa Romeo 164, during its early North American market presence.
Competitors:
Competed against other European executive sedans like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi 100/200.
Distinguishing Features:
Pininfarina-designed aerodynamic body, advanced front-wheel-drive platform (shared with Fiat Croma, Lancia Thema, Saab 9000), and powerful V6 engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with dealer-level repair and maintenance information, saving significant costs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of engine components.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine management sensors and actuators.
Emission Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emission control systems, including catalytic converters and EVAP.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic or similar), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Clutch System:
Hydraulic clutch operation, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing replacement.
Manual Transaxle:
Gearbox overhaul, synchromesh, bearings, seals, and lubrication.
Automatic Transaxle:
Service and repair of the automatic transmission (likely ZF or similar).
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, and axle components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, and bleeding procedures.
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts and airbag systems (if applicable to the specific model year covered).
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, trim, doors, windows, bumpers, and glass replacement.
Body Interior:
Interior trim panels, seating, dashboard, and consoles.
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power accessories, instruments, dashboard switches, and wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues across all systems.
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for component replacement, adjustment, and overhaul.
Diagnosis:
Diagnostic steps for identifying the root cause of malfunctions.
Installation:
Procedures for the installation and removal of various components.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete wiring diagrams for electrical systems, essential for diagnosis.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Examples:
164 V6 12-valve (Busso V6, e.g., AR0612) and potentially 24-valve variants in later models.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6 (Alfa Romeo Busso V6)
Displacement Liters:
3.0 L (2959 cc)
Horsepower Approx:
Approx. 184-190 hp for 12-valve, higher for 24-valve variants (specific to market/year).
Torque Approx:
Approx. 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) for 12-valve.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), likely Bosch Motronic.
Valve Actuation:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 2 valves per cylinder (for 12V) or 4 valves per cylinder (for 24V).
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or annually, refer to manual for exact specification based on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Interval Km:
Crucial maintenance item for the Busso V6, typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 km or 5-7 years due to interference engine design. Manual will specify.
Engine Oil Spec:
Likely API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40. Manual will confirm exact specification and capacity.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil specification for manual transaxle, e.g., GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity dependent on temperature. Manual will confirm.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF) for ZF units. Manual will confirm.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, control arm bushings, exhaust manifold gaskets (Busso V6), aging electrical connectors, climate control flap actuators.
Busso V6 Specifics:
Timing belt maintenance is critical; exhaust manifold leaks can cause noise and performance issues; valve stem seals can wear, leading to oil consumption.