🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

124 Spider

Year:

1986

Generation:

Third Generation (DS)

Chassis Code:

DS

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Fiat 124 Spider owners, independent repair shops, classic car enthusiasts.

Manual Advantage:

Provides official dealer-level information, surpassing generic aftermarket manuals in detail and accuracy.

Ease Of Use:

Designed for simplicity with step-by-step instructions and diagrams.

Completeness:

Covers all aspects of the vehicle, from basic maintenance to complex repairs.

Technical Accuracy:

Utilizes factory-verified data and specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive coverage for all workshop procedures including accessories, body, brakes, clutch, drive shaft, electrical systems, engine (0-50, 51-100, 101-170 HP variants), general information and maintenance, rear axle, steering, suspension, timing belt replacement, and transmission.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (all variants), clutch, transmission, drive shaft, rear axle.

Chassis:

Brakes, steering, suspension, wheels, tires.

Electrical And Accessories:

Complete electrical diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, accessories.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, trim, interior components, convertible top mechanism.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid level checks, lubrication, tune-ups.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, clutch replacement, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system fault finding.

Special Procedures:

Timing belt replacement, torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical wiring diagrams.

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced diagnostics, including electrical schematics and component testing.

Rebuild Level:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.

Adjustment Procedures:

Detailed procedures for all adjustments, from carburetor settings to ignition timing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content within the PDF

Zoom Functionality:

Enabled for clear viewing of diagrams and text

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder DOHC

Engine Displacement:

1995 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Code:

132 AC.000 (for many 2.0L variants)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 105-115 HP (depending on specific market and emissions controls), with variants covering 0-50, 51-100, and 101-170 HP as listed.

Torque Range:

Approximately 120-130 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (standard on most 1986 models)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Refer to manual for specific mileage/time interval (typically 50,000-70,000 miles or 5 years)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Type:

3-speed Automatic Transaxle (less common)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (if equipped with automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2240 mm (88.2 in)

Length:

4005 mm (157.7 in)

Width:

1650 mm (65.0 in)

Height:

1240 mm (48.8 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 970-1050 kg (2138-2315 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate

Wheel Size:

14-inch or 15-inch alloy or steel wheels

Tire Size:

185/70 R14 or 195/60 R14, 195/55 R15 (depending on trim and options)

Bolt Pattern:

4x130

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

No official government crash test ratings available for this specific model year from modern agencies. Design predates extensive standardized testing.

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Drum Brakes (with optional rear discs on some variants).

Parking Brake:

Mechanical handbrake, acting on rear wheels.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in the front.

Roll Over Protection:

Integral roll bar behind the seats (standard on most models).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically an AM/FM radio with an optional cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Dashboard Instruments:

Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter.

Driver Aids:

Basic: no electronic driver aids like ABS, traction control, or airbags.

Connectivity Features:

None beyond basic radio/speaker connections.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Refer to specific manual section; critical for engine integrity due to interference design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate)

Coolant:

50/50 mix of Ethylene Glycol antifreeze and distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III (if equipped with power steering)

Rust Susceptibility:

Prone to rust, especially in wheel arches, rocker panels, and sills. Thorough inspection is crucial.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. The manual's wiring diagrams are invaluable.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and alignment.

Convertible Top Mechanism:

Can require lubrication and adjustment; manual details operation and maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Fiat Auto S.p.A. is an Italian manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1899. Known for producing stylish and sporting automobiles.

Model Lineage:

The Fiat 124 Sport Spider was initially introduced in 1966 and evolved through several generations. The 1986 model is part of the final iteration, often referred to as the 'Pininfarina Spider' due to the design and later production involvement of Pininfarina.

Production Period:

1966–1982 (original), revived as the 'Spider Europa' or 'Spider Azzurra' by Pininfarina in collaboration with Fiat from 1983-1985. The 1986 model specifically refers to the final year of production under Fiat/Pininfarina before the platform was further developed into the Pininfarina Spider America.

Manufacturing Location:

Turin, Italy (initial) and later Grugliasco, Italy (Pininfarina plant for later models).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Designer Accolade:

The Fiat 124 Spider's design is widely praised and attributed to Pininfarina, contributing to its enduring appeal.