1999 T plate Crono grey LE1157 project
Well, after almost 16 years since parting company with my scots green 20v turbo, I am now the proud owner of LE1157 with 30,900 miles now on the clock.
I jumped on the train on Saturday with my girl and we made our way to south London where I purchased the car from the previous 16 year owner. The car itself is 100% corrosion free and the engine, gearbox etc are as tight and precise as the day it was driven out of the showroom. The car pulled strongly in every gear on the drive home and the sound of the turbo whistle and that beautiful 5 pot soon put a big smile on my face again.
However, although the previous keeper has maintained and serviced the car (full fiat service history) it has never had any kind of refresh.
The car is now booked in with Joe (F.C.S.S) for a complete overhaul of ALL the suspension components and underseal, full stainless exhaust system, new oil cooler and radiator if required, full coolant hose replacement, cam and auxiliary belts, water pump, clutch, brake overhaul, new OE drilled discs & pads, new brake lines, corrosion inhibitor treatment, thermostat and sensors, starter motor (think it might need one) and a load of other items Joe or myself will list as we go along.
The car isn't booked in with Joe until the middle of April, when I will drop it off with him before I head back to work.
In the meantime, I intend removing the centre and handbrake console for hydro dipping as they are both subject to the terrible sticky coating disease. I also hope to replace to rear and front badges as they have faded and also the wheel centre caps. I'm also trying to get hold of some new horns before it goes to Joe but if not will leave them to get sorted then.
At the end of the year (if not sooner, depends how long it takes to get the mechanics in top order), I will also be putting the car in for a full windows out, bumpers and side skirts off respray, including the door handles and B pillars so had better start saving again.
I will keep this post updated with progress as I go along as the previous owner (a sleeping forum member) has expressed his interest in seeing how I take the coupe forward from here. Rest assured, it's in good hands with me and Joe and I look forward to getting her back to her former glory.