Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact / City Car
Key Competitors:
Fiat 128, Autobianchi A112, Ford Fiesta, Renault 5, Volkswagen Polo, Opel Kadett.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Dante Giacosa, featuring front-wheel drive, transverse engine, and a compact, space-efficient layout.
Design Evolution:
Evolved through three generations with styling updates and mechanical improvements, including the introduction of OHC engines and larger displacements.
Cost Effectiveness:
Provides factory-level repair information without the cost of physical factory shop manuals or CD-ROMs.
Accessibility:
Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, tuning, and component replacement for various Fiat 127 engine variants (e.g., 903cc, 1049cc, 1301cc OHV and OHC engines).
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Weber, Solex) adjustment, rebuilding, fuel pump service, fuel lines, and tank maintenance.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, and bleeding procedures.
Lubrication And Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, fluid specifications (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant), lubrication points, filter replacement procedures.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (McPherson struts), rear leaf springs/beam axle, ball joints, bushings, shock absorbers, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and wheel cylinder rebuilding, parking brake adjustment.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator/generator, starter motor, ignition system (points, coil, distributor), lighting, fuses, relays, and accessory circuits.
Transmission:
Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, gear linkage adjustment, and fluid specifications.
Body:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, door, hood, and trunk lid adjustments, interior trim removal and installation.
Exhaust System:
Muffler and pipe replacement, gasket sealing, and mounting hardware.
Heating And Air Conditioning:
Heater core service, fan operation, and HVAC system component identification (though factory AC was less common on early models).
Emission Control Systems:
Information on early emission control devices such as PCV systems and air injection (if applicable to specific market versions).
Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical faults.
Rebuilding And Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major vehicle components.
Routine Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks such as fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing parts like spark plugs, brake pads, bearings, and seals.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Similar to factory shop manuals.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Extensive use of pictures and diagrams to clarify procedures and component identification.
Wiring Diagrams:
Included, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical system issues.
Engine Displacement Early:
903 cc (55.1 cu in)
Engine Type Early:
Fiat OHV Inline-4
Horsepower Early Model:
Approx. 47 hp (35 kW) at 6,000 rpm
Torque Early Model:
Approx. 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
Carburetion:
Single-barrel downdraft carburetor (e.g., Weber 30 DGF or Solex 30 PIC)
Later Engines:
Includes 1049cc OHV, 1049cc OHC, and 1301cc OHC engines for later generations and sport variants (e.g., 127 Sport).
Valve Adjustment:
Procedure for checking and adjusting valve clearances (typically involves shims or screw adjusters depending on engine variant).
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Tune Up:
Spark plug replacement and ignition timing adjustment recommended every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type Early:
API SE/SF, SAE 20W/50 or 10W/40 depending on climate.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (50/50) with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Rust Susceptibility:
Common on floor pans, sills, wheel arches, and door bottoms due to age and materials. The manual will guide repair.
Carburetor Issues:
Wear and tear on carburetors can lead to rough idling, poor fuel economy, and starting problems. Manual covers adjustment and rebuilding.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, affecting handling and steering. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Ignition System:
Contact breaker points, condenser, and distributor caps/rotors require regular maintenance or replacement for optimal performance.
Fiat Legacy:
Followed the success of the Fiat 850 and earlier compacts, continuing Fiat's tradition of affordable and practical small cars.
Generation I:
Launched in 1971, featuring a 903cc engine and front-wheel drive. Available as a 3-door hatchback.
Generation Ii:
Introduced in 1977 with a redesigned front end, larger windows, and new engine options including OHC variants.
Generation Iii:
Launched in 1981, featuring a facelifted exterior and interior, new trim levels, and further engine refinements (e.g., 1301cc OHC).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Italy, but also produced under license in Spain (SEAT 127), Poland (Polski Fiat 127p), and other countries.
Sales Volume:
Millions of units produced globally, making it a highly successful model for Fiat.