This may just save someone a wasted lunch time.
Long story short- have got a short break planned later this week. And the coupe is being used- no excuses, so look out A1(M) and York and surrounding areas for a swift moving coupe! I've checked, oil, tyres, bulbs-topped up that and any fluids as necessary. Went to a local car show yesterday in the coupe-as I simply could not make the 25th anniversary.
Today thought I would top up the fuel now-so I did not have to waste time when setting out on the journey. Everything else is down- safe the loading of the overnight bags. I know I thought...I'll fill her up over my lunch hour....mistake.
I knew immediately when I first tried to shut the fuel cap that something was wrong. By attempt 3-with the fuel cap lockable hook swinging freely-I knew it must be the plastic cap in the fuel cap body that had gone-sure enough it was not engaging.
No amount of playing with it would make the cap "click" shut. With irate drivers backing up- I quickly paid. And made the short but calculated journey back home with the fuel cap indignantly raised in the air-looking like a right fool.
I knew immediately what it was- and how to fix it thanks to this how to:
https://www.fiatcoupeclub.org/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=597140#Post597140So -one hour after setting off-a pen was located somewhere in my place- and cannibalised for a new spring. And fuel cap now repaired, re-seated and on car. And with firm clicks- its safe to take on the road again.
So ANOTHER big thank you to Stan- 2nd time I have had to use this in 6ish years!
If its some time since you had replaced your spring- or if you have never replaced your spring- this how to may just safe you loosing your lunch time...or worse being caught short at a motorway service station
Likely I need to upgrade away from biro pen springs....
regards
MM