🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Fiat

Model:

124 Spider

Year:

1979

Chassis Code:

BF

👋 Introduction

Market Niche:

The Fiat 124 Spider occupied a niche as an affordable, stylish Italian sports car, competing with models like the MGB, Triumph Spitfire, and Datsun 240Z/260Z.

Key Competitors:

MG MGB, Triumph Spitfire, Alfa Romeo Spider, Datsun 240Z/260Z, Porsche 914.

Vehicle Highlights:

RWD, lightweight chassis, stylish Pininfarina styling, powerful Twin Cam engine (for its class), excellent handling characteristics.

Intended Users:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, classic car restorers, and professional repair shops working on Fiat 124 Spiders.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Transmission, Driveshaft, Rear Axle, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Electrical System (Ignition, Lighting, Accessories), Body, Chassis, Heating & Ventilation, Maintenance Procedures, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book (likely softcover)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Fuel:

Detailed information on the Fiat Twin Cam (Lampredi) engine, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, carburetor service (Weber 34 DCLA or similar), fuel pump, and fuel lines.

Cooling And Lubrication:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant circulation, oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, and oil pressure specifications.

Suspension And Steering:

Front independent suspension (double wishbone), rear solid axle with links, shock absorbers, springs, steering box, tie rods, and power steering (if equipped).

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (Ventilated or solid depending on spec), rear drum brakes, master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, calipers, and wheel cylinders.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system (distributor, coil, spark plugs), lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals), starting system, charging system (alternator), dashboard instruments, fuses, and relays.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim, chassis lubrication points, and frame specifications.

Transmission And Rear Axle:

Manual transmission (5-speed typically), clutch assembly, driveshaft U-joints, differential, axle shafts, and hub maintenance.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, and lubrication schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common engine, electrical, and mechanical faults, often with symptom-based troubleshooting trees.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for major component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly (e.g., engine overhaul, transmission rebuild).

Installation And Adjustment:

Instructions for replacing components, adjusting carburetor settings, clutch engagement, parking brake, and alignment parameters.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Yes, covers complete engine disassembly, measurement of components, tolerances, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, cylinder head rebuild, etc.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic tune-ups to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications, tolerances, and torque values.

Wiring Diagrams Included:

Yes, detailed wiring diagrams are a critical component of factory service manuals for this era, essential for diagnosing electrical issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Considerations:

If digital, expect a searchable PDF. Quality of scans and OCR accuracy are critical for usability. Original factory manuals were printed, so digital versions are reproductions.

Print Quality Assessment:

Original factory manuals typically featured clear line drawings, diagrams, and black-and-white photographs. The quality of a reproduction manual depends on the source and printing process.

Binding Type:

Typically staple-bound or perfect-bound for softcover manuals. More robust hardcovers were rare for factory service manuals of this era.

Paper Type:

Standard newsprint or slightly heavier paper for original prints. Reproductions may use higher quality paper.

Manual Purpose:

Designed for mechanics and owners to perform all necessary repairs and maintenance, from basic servicing to complete overhauls.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), Fiat Twin Cam (also known as Lampredi engine)

Displacement:

1756 cc (1.8 Liters) - Common for 1979 models in North America. Earlier/later models might have 1.6L or 2.0L.

Horsepower Est:

Approximately 90-100 hp (SAE Net) for the 1.8L in 1979, depending on specific emissions equipment and tuning for the US market.

Torque Est:

Approximately 100-110 lb-ft (SAE Net) for the 1.8L.

Carburetion:

Typically twin Weber 34 DCLA downdraft carburetors or equivalent Dell'Orto carburetors.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating 91 (RON+MON)/2 (AKI) or higher recommended.

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based, coil ignition system.

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission (ZF or Fiat-produced)

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission was an option on some markets/years, but less common and often less desirable for enthusiasts.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual as viscosity can vary with climate).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 3930 mm (154.7 in)

Width:

Approximately 1610 mm (63.4 in)

Height:

Approximately 1230 mm (48.4 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2240 mm (88.2 in)

Curb Weight Est:

Approximately 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs)

Front Track:

Approx. 1345 mm (53.0 in)

Rear Track:

Approx. 1315 mm (51.8 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era vehicle. Safety features were limited.

Active Safety Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Limited electronic aids common in modern vehicles.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap belts (three-point belts became standard later in production or were retrofitted). Crumple zones were rudimentary by modern standards.

Headlights:

Halogen headlights (common upgrade/standard for later models).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic. Typically an AM/FM radio, possibly with a cassette player. No complex infotainment systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus is on mechanical feedback and driver engagement.

Connectivity Features:

No onboard computers or connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Tune Up Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) for spark plugs, points (if applicable), and ignition timing.

Timing Belt Interval:

The Twin Cam engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which generally requires less frequent maintenance but should be inspected for wear and tension.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Consult manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Fiat coolant recommendations may exist.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (DOT 4 preferred for higher boiling point).

Rust And Corrosion:

A very common issue. Wheel arches, rocker panels, floor pans, and convertible top well are prone to rust. Regular inspection and undercoating are crucial.

Carburetor Issues:

Weber carburetors can be finicky and require regular tuning and cleaning. Accelerator pump diaphragms can fail.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many cars of this era, electrical connections can degrade, leading to intermittent faults in lighting, ignition, and instrumentation.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, affecting handling and steering precision.

Parts Scarcity:

While many mechanical parts are available through specialist suppliers, body panels and some unique trim pieces can be challenging to find.

📚 Vehicle History

Fiat Legacy:

Fiat has a long history of producing small, sporty, and affordable cars known for their engineering and Italian style.

124 Spider Generations:

The 124 Spider (or Fiat Spider) was produced from 1966 to 1982. The 1979 model represents a later iteration of the original design, with some updates and refinements over the years. The US market saw engine displacements change from 1.4L to 1.6L, 1.8L, and finally 2.0L (with fuel injection later).

Manufacturing Location:

Turin, Italy (primarily for the original production).

Production Period:

1966-1982

Pininfarina Design:

The iconic styling was penned by Pininfarina, contributing significantly to its desirability.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Reputation:

The Fiat 124 Spider is widely recognized as a classic sports car icon, praised for its driving dynamics, style, and the renowned Fiat Twin Cam engine.

Enthusiast Appreciation:

Consistently ranks high among classic European sports cars for its balance of performance, handling, and affordability in the classic market.