Fiat 124 Spider - Page 8

FIAT 124 Spider
Engine Maintenance + Modification
8
you will need to keep the engine from knocking. These days most FIATs are recreational
vehicles, and pump-grade ‘super’ unleaded of 92 or higher octane will satisfy the CR of
any stock Spider up to 9.8:1.
2.6 Home Mechanic
Throughout this guide I make references to the “home mechanic.” This is, most likely,
you. As these cars age finding a qualified professional mechanic is becoming more and
more difficult. Spiders are easy to work on and, with few exceptions, will not require
any specialized tools to make run correctly. Your best source for diagnostics is yourself;
if you must use a professional mechanic arm yourself with the ability to discuss the
problem.
2.7 Shop Manuals and Guides
A “shop manual” is referred to many times in this guide. There is only one shop manual
for your car, it was originally published by FIAT and is sold by FIAT parts vendors. There
were also numerous “guides” published by companies like Autobook, Haynes, Chilton’s,
and Drake. To avoid any confusion please note that unless explicitly stated, references
to the shop manual always indicate the FIAT shop manual.