FIAT 124 Spider
Engine Maintenance + Modification
77
Distributor Cap: If your cap has any cracks or shows obvious signs of wear on the
electrodes then it is time for replacement. Aftermarket caps are sometimes of poor
quality; if you can find the original Marelli distributor cap it is always your best bet.
Rotor: Replace with cap or if the wear is excessive. Spend the time to find an original
Marelli rotor; they are of much higher quality than most of the aftermarket types.
Vacuum Advance Capsule: The rod from the distributor body into the capsule should pull
when the throttle is engaged. Otherwise replace the hose, capsule, or both.
Coil: Test the coil using a voltmeter and the procedure described in the shop manual for
your model year. A twenty or thirty year old coil may still be producing good spark –
these are very durable devices. Note that the coil in the 1979-85 Spiders must be
replaced with the appropriate Marelli unit and never with a coil designed for points-type
distributors.
Magnetic Pickup and Control Module: Any wear or exposed wiring should prompt you to
replace the unit. The wires on many aftermarket units are longer than necessary, be
careful to position them so they do not rub against the moving parts of the distributor. If
you are replacing the magnetic pickup you may want to consider replacing the control
module; however, the control module is reasonably insulated and has no moving parts
near it, it tends to last much longer.
Points: For cars with breaker points, the gap should be 0.31 to 0.49mm and the contacts
should be in good condition. Marelli points are available for (at the time of this writing)
under $10.00 a set.
Condenser(s): Replace any time you replace the breaker points.
Dwell Angle: The dwell angle is 55 degrees. Check and adjust with the points.
10.1.2 Cylinder Head
The cylinder head should be checked for fluid leaks. If the head isn’t clean enough to
inspect it then consider cleaning it up with engine cleaner or carburetor cleaner. Check
the coolant hoses entering and exiting the head. Remove the camshaft covers. If the oil
inside the camshaft boxes is foamy or a milky brownish-black you most likely have a
leaking head gasket. You may also have a greenish-white crystallization on your spark
plugs. You must
replace the head gasket before using this engine.
If everything looks good then check the valve lash:
• Intake : 0.45mm cold
• Exhaust: 0.50mm cold
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