Club126UK

Fiat 126 Chat => Your Restorations => Topic started by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 08:54:56 PM

Title: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 08:54:56 PM
So I desided to publish my 126 project. I have been dreaming about Fiat 126 many years and finally I bought my first orange 126 -85 "polski".

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2130.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2130.jpg)

I bought the car when it was dark and when I got home very soon I found out that its pretty rusty.. So I desided that I won't build a car from that individual. Then I saw an advertisement from internet that there is a -73 126 for sold. Price was only 100euros so I went to see what there is waiting for me.

Well there was waiting a car which hasn't been in traffic since 1988. It has been stored in a warm garage. Kids had been playing with colors but it wasn't too rusty. So I bought the car:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0197.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0197.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0196.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0196.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 08:59:47 PM
I got home and started working. I made a schedule that all the metal work has to be done before winter. Usually winter comes here in november/december.

Started to work around the car. First little bit of dismantling:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0208.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0208.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0215.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0215.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0201.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0201.jpg)

New sheet metal parts:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0198.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0198.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 09:04:34 PM
Started from the front:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2093.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2093.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2092.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2092.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2089.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2089.jpg)

Then moved to the front fenders (too bad that I didn't have the inner front fender so I had to make them from scratch):

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0212.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0212.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_DSC_0211.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=DSC_0211.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2091.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2091.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2088.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2088.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 09:07:49 PM
New right side floorpan:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2106.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2106.jpg)

New sheet metal parts in front:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2108.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2108.jpg)

Right side:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2113.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2113.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_2011-10-18_16-16-00_437.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=2011-10-18_16-16-00_437.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2208.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2208.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2120.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2120.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 09:13:25 PM
Then yesterday I started to work on the rear right fender:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_2011-10-18_16-15-53_141.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=2011-10-18_16-15-53_141.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_2011-10-19_15-15-54_33.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=2011-10-19_15-15-54_33.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_2011-10-19_15-15-54_33.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=2011-10-19_15-15-54_33.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2207.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2207.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2212.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2212.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2211.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2211.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 20, 2011, 09:22:14 PM
I bought one 126 -74 which cost me 100euros including transportation. I think it was a bargain because I will get so many parts from that car:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2131.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2131.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Aaron on October 21, 2011, 05:23:14 AM
Wow! that's quite a bit of welding you've done.  Starting to look good! ;)

Where was the rust in the orange one?  From the picture it looks OK.

What's the planned colour for the project when completed?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 21, 2011, 07:58:08 AM
Wow! that's quite a bit of welding you've done.  Starting to look good! ;)

Where was the rust in the orange one?  From the picture it looks OK.

What's the planned colour for the project when completed?

Why I didn't build the car from the orange one? Yes.. It seems ok, but actually it's worse than this -73-. Basically there is rust everywhere. It looks good because the previus owner has painted it two years a ago, but under the nice paint it's so rusty..

The other reason is that "polski" 126's are not so collectable/valuable/popular at least here in Finland. People don't like those so much. Third reason is that it's easier to do MOT every year for -73 than -85 because for -73 you don't need to test the exhaust emissions. So basically there can come anything from the exhaust system if your car is so old in Finland :)

I haven't really desided the color of the car yet.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Emin on October 21, 2011, 10:36:05 AM
Keep up the good work and pics coming. Good luck with the resto. All three look very nice!..
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: Tate on October 21, 2011, 04:41:00 PM
Finished today welding the right side outer sill panel.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2228.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2228.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2238.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2238.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2234.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2234.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2240.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2240.jpg)

I have also made some purchases.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2227.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2227.jpg)

I also managed to find "new" doors for this car. They have been hanging in the wall of Fiat dealer in 80's. They have been stored in cold place so they are all over little bit of rust in the surface. However they are very solid.. Need only some kind of surface threatment.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2232.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2232.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland
Post by: nrg19uk on October 21, 2011, 07:57:12 PM
You've been busy  8)

Any surface rust I would recommend http://www.retro-uk.com/fertan.htm

It's the only stuff that I have found that actually works I have treated spots of rust and left to the elements has not come back  :o
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on October 22, 2011, 05:15:03 PM
Today I installed right side door because it needed little bit of adjusting. I also welded the front fender and side flasher sheet metal support. There has been a lot of work with some new metal parts because the Polish quality is so bad.. Even now I'm not fully satisfied to the side flasher sheet metal which I installed today, but what can you do when the quality is just so rubbish..  :( Well... no stress..  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2250.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2250.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2253.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2253.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2257.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2257.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Amateb8 on October 22, 2011, 06:47:44 PM
Your doing great! I can't wait to see the car finished. Will you do some modifications to it or will you keep the car original. Have you thought of the colour of the car?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on October 22, 2011, 07:53:09 PM
Your doing great! I can't wait to see the car finished. Will you do some modifications to it or will you keep the car original. Have you thought of the colour of the car?

Thanks! Yes.. I will do some modifications to it, but now I'm just trying to get all the sheet metal work done before winter comes. Last year this time snow came and it lasted for the whole winter.

I haven't yet desided the color. One choise is the orginal "green lime". Hopefully this car will be painted at the latest in the end of this year.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on October 26, 2011, 04:55:59 PM
Few days went with my other car bacause one Finnish tuning magazine wanted to make an article about it... Everytime I show pictures of it, people ask me why I wan't to build an Fiat even though I have already such a nice BMW. Well, I'm nuts and I know it  :o

Back to Fiat 126. Today I started to work with the left side of the car. Nothing special... It went pretty easily because I already had experience from the other side.

Orginal floor..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2281.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2281.jpg)

And we have a hole!

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2282.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2282.jpg)

Then I welded the nuts for attaching seat belts to the new floor pan

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2286.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2286.jpg)

And magic.. We have a new floor..  ::)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2291.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2291.jpg)




Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on October 27, 2011, 09:10:56 PM
Also the left side inner sill needed some work:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2294.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2294.jpg)

New replacement panel for inner sill already welded:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2301.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2301.jpg)

I also started to fit the outer sill panel.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2303.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2303.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Emin on October 27, 2011, 09:49:22 PM
Well done!.. You are doing great and fast. I wish i had time, space, skills and most importantly a car! :)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: KAL SPL on October 28, 2011, 02:04:43 AM
Its funny seeing someone spend so much time on a car that is well , disposable and cheap.
I guess if I could panel beat and had access to panels I would be just as bad :p
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on October 29, 2011, 08:04:07 PM
Don't know about the skills, but I'm little bit of nuts and I know it  :P

Ok, the last couple of days I have been trying to fit the left side outer sill and rear inner and outer fender.

First I cutted off the old outer sill and started to fit the new one.

New sill welded:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2336.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2336.jpg)

Rear fender had a bit more to do because there was again a alot of rust. I made lines and started cutting gently the outer fender off:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2307.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2307.jpg)

Outer fender removed:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2317.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2317.jpg)

Inner fender removed:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2318.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2318.jpg)

Found three packets of cigarette and a alot of burned cigarettes  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2315.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2315.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2316.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2316.jpg)

Welded the new inner fender:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2328.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2328.jpg)

Painted it:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2330.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2330.jpg)

And fitted the new outer fender:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2337.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2337.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2338.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2338.jpg)

Some of the old rusty sheet metal parts  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_2325.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_2325.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: GTMaster on October 31, 2011, 07:21:25 AM
Great work you're doing. I had a collection of rusty metal bits too after changing the panels :)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on November 06, 2011, 03:54:25 PM
Great work you're doing. I had a collection of rusty metal bits too after changing the panels :)

I had to listen that George Harrison "Got my mind set on you" song. Those are so true words in that song  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on December 10, 2011, 05:23:18 PM
Whats up?  :D

Lately I've been very busy around the car. I think that the car is quite ready what comes to the sheet metal work. Tomorrow I will still do some small things and then it's ready for the next phase which will be painting. I had pretty good luck because this year here in Finland the snow came only a couple of days ago. Outside temperature has also mainly been between 0 and 5'C degs.

If I'm lucky car will be in new paint in the end of this year. I will provide some pictures for you soon.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on February 24, 2012, 07:40:24 PM
Nothing happened after last update. I had to move to another side of Finland so my 126 is waiting until my temporary job here is finished.

If somebody is intrested of my BMW E21..

Finnish Tuning.fi magazine contacted me last autumn and they wanted to make an presentation about my car. I was very flattered about this because I never really was so keen about putting my car an a magazine or in a trade show. However the issue where my car is will be out in the stores in 5. of April here in Finland. There is a small "teaser" in the current magazine about the forthcoming issue. Journalist just made a small mistake in the text.. My car isn't a genuine 323i but who cares..   :)

I can translate what there is said about my car. "The green one": The green E21 owned by Antti Järvinen is powered by tuned M20B26 construction. Dashing retropacket includes Schrick camshaft, ported head and piquant extra comes from genuine and old parts such as Alpina steering wheel and BBS rims.


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/bmw/Tulossavihree_pieni.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Emin on February 24, 2012, 09:56:43 PM
Very nice and straight E21 there! Delicious!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: GTMaster on February 26, 2012, 05:07:21 AM
The BMW has a nice colour, Waldgrün perhaps?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on March 22, 2012, 04:34:46 PM
The BMW has a nice colour, Waldgrün perhaps?

It's Pustagrün.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on April 01, 2012, 01:22:37 PM
I haven' still made my mind what kind of engine will find it's way to the engine bay. Somehow I like the nostalgic feeling of the "orginal" 2-syl aircooled engine. I have already bought 750cc kit and panda head from Ebay. That would be easiest and maybe also the "right" way to tune 126. I have still about 2 months to think about this before I continue building my 126.

I have also planned two other realistic options for the engine:

1. "Orginal" 2-syl aircooled engine supercharged. That would need programmable ecu (Megaquirt or similar) and quite a lot modifications to make it work reliably. This option would add a alot fun factor but I don't know how reliable it would be as that is very important for me in all my cars. :$

2. Cinquecento 0,9l engine with Megasquirt. I have studied a alot which 4-syl engine would be possible to put there and seems that Cinquecento 903cc is the only Fiat engine which is possible to swap according Finnish law's.. ::) I think that with this option the engine would be VERY reliable and there would be a alot potential to tune the engine afterwards. ;) As a big negative aspect is that the nostalgic feeling is gone after that engine. :-X

I have had quite contradictory feelings what this car will be. Roll cage and hardcore engine modifications would be now quite easy to do as the car is just a shell, but I don't know if those would be " not so good" idea as a long term. Orginally this was supposed to be just a restoration and maybe some small mods. Now it's so close that this will get out of control or "moped starts to do wheelies" as we say in Finland. :oops:

(http://koti.mbnet.fi/~joetail/temput/keuliminen02iso.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: MeelisV on April 01, 2012, 06:25:20 PM
if you dont use 750cc kit and panda head then you know that i´m not far away and interested of these things  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on May 14, 2012, 08:48:51 PM
OK... Show must go on.. :D

Today I started up one of my spare part 126's.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3108.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3108.jpg)

After few minutes of work I got it running altough it had been just waiting from last autumn. It's an orange Polski 126 and I will take the 650cc engine from it and use it as a base engine for my -73 126. I have chosen to respect the "era" and use the 2 syl orginal engine with some modifications.

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on May 14, 2012, 09:00:08 PM
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2krt-LmYbg&feature=youtu.be[/youtube]
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on May 16, 2012, 03:33:47 PM
Just bought myself a used set of front brake calipers from Cinquecento.

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Sheet metal work]
Post by: Tate on May 17, 2012, 07:21:40 PM
Plan for today was to remove the engine from the orange polski.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3129.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3129.jpg)

First I removed the engine lid.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3132.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3132.jpg)

Engine removal took 2 hours.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3139.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3139.jpg)

Empty engine bay

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3140.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3140.jpg)

Engine and transmission removed

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3143.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3143.jpg)

This is how engine looked at the end of today

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_IMG_3174.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/?action=view&current=IMG_3174.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: bis13 on May 17, 2012, 07:51:14 PM
good work tate a true work of art.... ;)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: popik81 on May 17, 2012, 08:58:06 PM
nice work waiting for finish:)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on May 18, 2012, 10:45:58 AM
Thanks! It's still a long way for a finished car.. and a lot of £ & €  ::)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: popik81 on May 18, 2012, 10:23:03 PM
and pln?? :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on May 19, 2012, 01:50:44 PM
and pln?? :D

Yes.. Especially pln  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on May 20, 2012, 06:18:28 AM
Yesterday I bought a second hand steering wheel. It's real leather with white stitching. It feels very good on my hands  :)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3222.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on May 25, 2012, 08:20:27 PM
My "own" design brake disc adapters came from laser cutting. They are made from S690 series fine grain structural steel. With minimum yield strength of 690 N/mm2  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3259.jpg)

Decided to change the "base" engine. Orginally I thought that I would make it from that polski 126 but I changed my mind. I will use the orginal -73 engine block so I had to dismantle another engine :)

This way the engine will look "orginal" by the block numbers and identification codes.

So here we go again.. Engine ready to dismantle:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3270.jpg)

Something done already.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3271.jpg)

Pistons  :D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3272.jpg)

In the end of the day:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3279.jpg)
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3281.jpg)


Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 Restoration from Finland [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on May 28, 2012, 06:43:57 PM
Today new NANNI intake manifold arrived.....  :o

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3306.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3307.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on June 03, 2012, 04:06:09 PM
One big setback was when I measured for the first time the cylinder kit which I bought last year from French Ebay.. It was supposed to be 82mm 750cc kit as the french guy sold it like that.

When I measured the cylinder a couple days ago it was 80mm not 82mm as sold to me.  :cry:


My new "old stock" Weber 32 DCOF came from Germany.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3305.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Pete126 on June 04, 2012, 01:35:43 AM
Hi Tate,
Its gonna sound great with the weber installed! Its all coming together now so keep up the momentum and i look forward to seeing your project completed :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: paid_in_full on June 15, 2012, 11:13:38 AM
Do you want to conect this intake mainfold with Fiat Panda 30 head ?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on June 15, 2012, 04:08:57 PM
Do you want to conect this intake mainfold with Fiat Panda 30 head ?

Yes I will mount that Nanni intake manifold to Panda 30 head..?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: paid_in_full on June 15, 2012, 04:58:50 PM
I hope that you know that standard ventilator housing wont't fit.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on June 15, 2012, 09:16:16 PM
Yes but that is one of the smallest problems with this project  ;)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: paid_in_full on June 18, 2012, 08:00:36 AM
Why dont't you want to use standard 126p head with this kind of inlet mainfold ? It's plug and play :D

(http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/1858/nanninihead.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/140/nanninihead.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Panda head with the carburetor that you want to fix there will be nothing to look for below 3000 rpm.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on June 25, 2012, 04:25:03 PM
Some parts from Italy came today  :o

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0082.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: popik81 on June 25, 2012, 04:38:43 PM
lovely.... how much??
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on June 25, 2012, 04:43:58 PM
lovely.... how much??

Too much...   :$ But I had to have them.. ;D I was already getting a bit worried because it took over a month to get those but finally they are at home  ;)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: popik81 on June 25, 2012, 04:45:59 PM
i will try to buy them next year(money).... scraps in poland from thursday  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Amateb8 on July 03, 2012, 06:29:46 AM
Lovely alloy bits! I am envious! I have a 126 Bis. There is unfortunately no off the shelf hop-up alloy parts for watercooled 126s. Your engine bay will look quite impressive to look at. Keep the photos coming!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on July 03, 2012, 07:50:42 PM
*uck... this project really got out of hands...   :oops:

I just ordered myself wheel arch extensions  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: dajwid on July 03, 2012, 08:06:35 PM
Tate, don't worry we won't tell your wife how much you are spending  :$

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on July 03, 2012, 08:13:35 PM
Tate, don't worry we won't tell your wife how much you are spending  :$



She knows already...  :$
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: dajwid on July 03, 2012, 08:25:11 PM
Blimey!!! That is true love  :o ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on July 03, 2012, 09:04:13 PM
Blimey!!! That is true love  :o ;D ;D ;D

Hahhah  ;D  ;D

Just transferred the money to Italy. We'll see if I ever get there anything at all  :D Italians are pretty hard to communicate with..  ::)

(http://aux4.iconpedia.net/uploads/817572948.png)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on July 07, 2012, 07:37:37 PM
Today I removed all suspension parts from my orange polski and installed them to my car. This way I got 4x98 wheel hubs and better selection of wheels. The body still needs some finishing and small welding. I'm now waiting those wheel arch extensions and I believe that it's going to be quite big job to fit them...  :-X
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 08, 2012, 08:52:45 AM
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0127.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 08, 2012, 05:51:11 PM
Tried to see how the ET20 13x5,5" ATS classic fits in to the orginal wheel arches. It fits better than I expected  ::) Those are THE WHEELS which I have had many years already and this whole project got its start from those ATS classics :)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0136.jpg)

I just need a 175/50/13 tire so I deceded to borrow one wheel from my another car. Tomorrow I will go to change that tire to the ATS wheel and we shall see how it fits with the tire to the orginal wheel arch.

I also tried that golden Opel wheel to my car  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0140.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Amateb8 on July 09, 2012, 07:12:28 PM
I love those ATS alloys. I think those are quite rare.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 09, 2012, 08:14:24 PM
Today I quickly fitted the ATS alloy with the 175/50/13 tire and seems that it may touch the orginal wheel arch when "bumping". This is the reason why I deceded to fit the wheel arch extensions in the first place. I think that the alloy fits very nicely to the wheel arch but again I wan't to be 101% sure that the tire won't touch the arch in any situation.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0142.jpg)

But can somebody tell me what the *uck are these and what are they doing in front of my car..  :o  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0145.jpg)

Ok.. they are 13" Hoosier slicks..  8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: paul555 on July 13, 2012, 11:43:28 PM
I think Fiat 126 should live factory with ATS classics on. I would love to have set for mine but can't find any reasonable priced :cry: From pics I would say it'll rub on sidewalls on bigger bumps or under load (but then looking on slicks don't think you'll be carrying any load 8) )  Downsize to 165/55 or 155/65, or quick job with arch roller sholud sort this problem. Anyway can't wait to see it finished ;)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: DEYAN IYI on July 14, 2012, 06:51:32 AM
I love ATS Classic as well :P Do you have any idea how heavy they are if 5.5J13?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 14, 2012, 01:23:18 PM
I think Fiat 126 should live factory with ATS classics on. I would love to have set for mine but can't find any reasonable priced :cry: From pics I would say it'll rub on sidewalls on bigger bumps or under load (but then looking on slicks don't think you'll be carrying any load 8) )  Downsize to 165/55 or 155/65, or quick job with arch roller sholud sort this problem. Anyway can't wait to see it finished ;)

Can you believe that I bought those ATS alloys second hand several years ago and paid only 40 euros.. Thats £30-35  ::) It was some outside "flea market" or how do you call it in UK and some old gent had them.

It's true that they rub on sidewalls in big bumps. Thats why I bought wheel arch extensions (+5cm/side). Right now I'm waiting them to arrive from Italy.

I can weight them someday.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 15, 2012, 04:18:03 PM
Today I had time to try how the ATS fits to the front.. and it doesn't. Well it does when wheels are straight but problems occur when you turn the steering wheel. It looks good though! :D All this doesn't really have so much importance because I shall start fitting the wheel arch extensions as soon as they arrive..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_01691.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 17, 2012, 07:55:51 PM
Hooooooooosier!

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0182.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Fiatos on July 18, 2012, 08:23:08 PM
It looks like very very good with the ATS rims. Here some Pictures of an engine with Panda 30 cylinder head. How large is the dimension of the slicks?

(http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/7049/foto0338l.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/406/foto0338l.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/661/foto0342x.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/525/foto0342x.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Amateb8 on July 21, 2012, 08:27:25 PM
The look of that engine is pornographic!! Lovely.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 29, 2012, 08:04:02 PM
I still waiting for the wheel arch extension kit to arrive from Italy..  :-X

I have been thinking of making a coilover conversion to the front suspension. So while waiting parts to arrive from Italy I deceded to make some reinforcements to the front.

Started from here:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0221.jpg)

After removing the old paint:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0220.jpg)

Ended up making this kind of reinforcement:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0234.jpg)

Looks like this:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0275.jpg)

I welded also a very thick washer to the other side:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0268.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 29, 2012, 08:27:43 PM
This is what I'm waiting for.....

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/levikkeet.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Pete126 on July 29, 2012, 10:01:11 PM
Fantastic job Tate :good: Should be ready for the Maluch World Meet next year :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: ekrem on July 30, 2012, 12:28:01 AM
Hmm, there shouldnt be problems with ATS rims. On pink one I have 13x7 et 25, and only think i have to do is to push inner part of wheel arch on front. It never have problems. And i also have ATS Classic 13x6 et 21 and i am planing to put them on my....i thought it will be easy :(
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: paid_in_full on July 30, 2012, 09:30:18 AM
There you have 126 Bis conversion to mid-engine  with front suspenssion with coilovers. Maybe it will be useful:

http://www.racingforum.pl/index.php?showtopic=84784&st=0&start=0
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 30, 2012, 07:26:01 PM
Thanks! Yep.. there is a possibility that me, my better half + this car are coming to MWM 2013  ;)


Fantastic job Tate :good: Should be ready for the Maluch World Meet next year :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 30, 2012, 07:27:25 PM
I think that they may fit if your car isn't lowered...


Hmm, there shouldnt be problems with ATS rims. On pink one I have 13x7 et 25, and only think i have to do is to push inner part of wheel arch on front. It never have problems. And i also have ATS Classic 13x6 et 21 and i am planing to put them on my....i thought it will be easy :(
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on July 30, 2012, 07:28:13 PM
Thanks but I know this car already.. and we have had few discussions in Facebook :)


There you have 126 Bis conversion to mid-engine  with front suspenssion with coilovers. Maybe it will be useful:

http://www.racingforum.pl/index.php?showtopic=84784&st=0&start=0
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: paid_in_full on August 02, 2012, 01:53:44 PM
Are you going to install a 126 Bis steering gear in your car ?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 02, 2012, 03:35:45 PM
Are you going to install a 126 Bis steering gear in your car ?

I haven't really decided yet?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 03, 2012, 07:00:41 PM
This is what I'm waiting for.....

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/levikkeet.jpg)

They are here!!! It took exactly 3 weeks to arrive from Italy  :-X But finally they are at home!!  ;D

 :wave
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: DEYAN IYI on August 03, 2012, 08:44:53 PM
 :P yeaaaah....

Now make a matrix before you fit them and start a small business  ;D 8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Pete126 on August 03, 2012, 08:52:05 PM
Sweet Look forward to seeing them on the car :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 04, 2012, 06:17:15 PM
OK.. so finally those wheel arch extensions came from Italy. I have to say that I'm very pleased about the quality. This guy knows how to play with glass fiber. This time the risk was definitely worth taking for!

So this is what came from Italy:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_02941.jpg)

Then it was time to start working with these fine ass wheel arches  ;D I must be mad because I have used many hours/days to fix these... and now I will cut them again!

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_02801.jpg)

Well today I got pretty much the first one done and I have to say that I'm very satisfied  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_02921.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 05, 2012, 07:56:45 PM
Today I prepared also the front right side for the wheel arch extension.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_03031.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: KAL SPL on August 06, 2012, 02:04:32 AM
So much easier when things fit the first time !
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: paid_in_full on August 07, 2012, 10:40:08 AM
Can you show me where did you buy those wheel arches ?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 07, 2012, 06:52:14 PM
Can you show me where did you buy those wheel arches ?

Yes, I bought them from this company in Italy: http://www.fibercar.it/
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: paid_in_full on August 08, 2012, 08:04:12 AM
Thanks. It would be good to install also light front hood and light engine cover.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 08, 2012, 07:31:45 PM
This project just keeps on slipping out of my hands...  ;D What's happening in here?

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0308.jpg)

Well this is how Fiorino looks in our yard. Beauty isn't she?  :P

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0313.jpg)

But what is under the bonnet?

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0315.jpg)

Fiat 127 903cc engine of course!!!  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0316.jpg)

And just for fun.. few pictures from interior. HEY whats here?

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0321.jpg)

Two big caliber bullets just for me if I get bored with this? Is this a sign from the "sky" ?

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0322.jpg)

Speakers:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0324.jpg)

Dashboard:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0323.jpg)


If you are still reading... Yes, I will try to install this 903cc engine to my 126... :$ 8)











Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: 1973/126 on August 08, 2012, 07:49:19 PM
 Ohhh I like that a lot, please tel me you not gonna scrap it. That thing is so rare, it would make a great Fiat service van... 8)
 
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 08, 2012, 08:02:07 PM
Ohhh I like that a lot, please tel me you not gonna scrap it. That thing is so rare, it would make a great Fiat service van... 8)
 

Yes.. I will scrap it. :$ It's so rusty that there is no sense restoring it.. You can come to Finland and pick it up for free  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 11, 2012, 07:05:14 PM
Today I removed the 903cc engine from Fiorino.

No mercy!  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0327.jpg)

After removing drive shafts, hoses, wiring and bolts it was time to lift the 903cc engine + gearbox from the car.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0332.jpg)

Then I made the first test to see how the engine fits to the engine bay. Looks good :)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0336.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 16, 2012, 06:07:03 AM
Nothing special has happened.. I have been designing and fabricating the fastening points for the Fiat 127 engine and Fiat 600 gearbox.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 18, 2012, 08:27:56 PM
Asked if my friend would make one sleeve for me with lathe but he made four of them:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0358.jpg)

Parts from laser cutting company (design by me):

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0363.jpg)

Universal rubber supports for Fiat 600 gearbox:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0360.jpg)


Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 18, 2012, 08:32:49 PM
Today I started to make the fastenings for the engine and gearbox. Gearbox is now already attached but unfortunately didn't remember to take any pictures of it..

For the engine I fabricated this kind of support plate:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0370.jpg)

Some welding...

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0390.jpg)

More welding..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0384.jpg)

This is how I left the car today. Engine mount needs still some work to be finished.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0376.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: KAL SPL on August 19, 2012, 03:38:34 PM
Deffinately unique !
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 19, 2012, 08:24:49 PM
I dont know about unique but when you do stuff by yourself - you get what you deserve!  :$  ::)

Today I continued fabricating engine mount.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0396.jpg)

Welded it together:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0415.jpg)

I tried to fit the engine and gearbox so that nobody could not see it from outside but it seemed almost impossible. So I had to make some room for it and chop the orginal rear beam.

So I cutted it until there was just enough space for the engine and made this kind of frame:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0399.jpg)

Then I started welding sheet metal:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0403.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0412.jpg)

And here it is after welding:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0413.jpg)

Engine sits quite nice there.. as it would be ment to be there?  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0423.jpg)




Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Fiatos on August 19, 2012, 09:54:52 PM
It looks like good with your 903ccm engine. I did it in 2006 with the original Fiat 126 gearbox.

(http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/1816/133ai.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/133ai.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
(http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/66/134et.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/255/134et.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/3286/135hyx.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/404/135hyx.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 21, 2012, 07:49:59 PM
Bought today a used exhaust silencer... Yoshimura  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0431.jpg)

Engine fits quite nicely but starter won't fit to its place. In Fiat 600 it is in top of gearbox so I had to make some room for it.

Here we go....

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0433.jpg)

I decided that I make so much room that it is possible to remove the starter without removing engine/gearbox.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0436.jpg)

Hole from inside the car:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0441.jpg)

Next step is to fill that hole and make some reinforcement arouind it as I cutted quite important structural element from the car.



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Da Londo on August 22, 2012, 09:44:53 AM
Very nice work, it's inspiring.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on August 22, 2012, 08:20:29 PM
Thanks for the compliments! Gives me more energy to work with this car.  :good:

This evening I made some progress because I filled the starter hole from inside. Next step is to fill 2 holes from under the car and make some reinforcements.

Now it is possible to remove the starter without removing engine/gearbox. Makes service a lot easier. :$

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0452.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on September 09, 2012, 06:47:00 PM
Last couple of weeks I have been just finishing the body before new paint. There have been so many small things that they are making me crazy..  :-X

Today I fabricated a place for the radiator which is from Vauxhall Nova. I hope that my design works as I am going to use the orginal air cooling duct to lead the air from the side ducts to the radiator. Then I lead the air from radiator to the orginal holes which are in the engine lid.

This is where I started from:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0537.jpg)

Then I bought the radiator:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0539.jpg)

Two new fans:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0548.jpg)

Fans installed to the car:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0553.jpg)

Radiator installed:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0547.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: KAL SPL on September 10, 2012, 12:01:29 PM
That's thinking outside the box !
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on September 11, 2012, 08:10:51 PM
Thanks.. but thinking outside the box also means that you have to face all the new problems.. As now I'm thinking how I will solve/implement radiator expansion tank as there is not so much space for the tank  :(  :-X
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on September 12, 2012, 05:49:53 PM
I think that I have solved the problem which I told about in the last message. I will install in-line coolant filler neck to the upper coolant hose and add a overflow resevoir tank. That seems to be the best solution.

(http://www.nfauto.co.uk/images/july2006/in-line_radiator_filler_neck.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on September 23, 2012, 06:47:39 PM
Today I sold my orange "Polski" as a got all the parts I needed from it. I put the car for sold at the morning and about an hour ago someone came to pick it up  :o Thats fast...   :D

New owners taking it home:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/DSC_0595_zpsd89b7b36.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on October 03, 2012, 07:34:01 PM
To the paint shop...

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0616.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Pete126 on October 03, 2012, 07:48:29 PM
This is where all the hard work comes together ;D you've done a great job Tate, Look forward to seeing the car in colour :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on October 03, 2012, 07:57:37 PM
I'm very excited... great job!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Madd on October 25, 2012, 11:50:20 PM
Slowly, slowly, from stock to perfection :)

Great job.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Seabee1978126 on October 26, 2012, 09:42:12 AM
This project is looking real good man! Congrats on getting to the point of paint :D Ill be waiting for more great pics.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: ronb1967 on October 29, 2012, 06:20:08 PM
Can i just ask what you have done , when you install an addaptor plate inbetween gearbox and engine (for example 20mm thick ) the gearbox primary shaft will no longer reach into the spigot bearing on the flywheel (spigot bearing in rear of crank shaft ) ! so what have you done to solve this problem ?   
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Bodywork]
Post by: Tate on December 28, 2012, 06:53:28 PM
Can i just ask what you have done , when you install an addaptor plate inbetween gearbox and engine (for example 20mm thick ) the gearbox primary shaft will no longer reach into the spigot bearing on the flywheel (spigot bearing in rear of crank shaft ) ! so what have you done to solve this problem ?   

I will use Fiat 600 gearbox so I don't need adapter plate anymore.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on December 28, 2012, 07:14:32 PM
Update.. Sadly nothing has really happened to the car. First I thought that it would be painted already in December 2012, but it didn't happen. My friend who is going to paint the car has been so busy that he has done nothing to the car. That's why I have started to prepare it for painting myself. I have sanded the whole car from outside and now I have started to put some putty in few places.

Here are few pictures

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0642_zpsb2ed3df5.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0649_zpsfcbf5967.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0643_zpsf3bb03c3.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0771_zps47cfd7f6.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0763_zps5a165ff2.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0767_zps57406f80.jpg)

Before christmas I took my BMW E21 to a warm garage where is also my Opel Corsa A.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0742_zps791c44cc.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0760_zps87923cdc.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on December 29, 2012, 12:02:20 PM
Today I made a three year donation and joined subscribers.  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on December 29, 2012, 01:09:56 PM
 :good: Nice work! Keep it going
( I like your other cars as well )
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Hazey-n-Marc on December 29, 2012, 01:37:29 PM
I really don't like Corsa's :(, but I love 126's and E21's :D. nice work ;D.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: dajwid on December 29, 2012, 03:32:25 PM
What colour will this be? Only asking as I love the colour of your BMW.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on December 29, 2012, 04:57:56 PM
What colour will this be? Only asking as I love the colour of your BMW.

It will be white.

And thanks for the compliments!  :thumbup That is really needed as I think now is the most hardest point at least from my view. I just need to push this trough and get the car painted because after that starts the nice part :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Amateb8 on December 30, 2012, 06:18:06 PM
I have said it many times before, I wish I had the skill to do what you are doing. The greatest satisfaction one could have is having to finish, and actually drive the finish product. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Keep up the good work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on January 27, 2013, 08:39:01 PM
Some new photos. Now the car is in primer. Still a lot to do..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0833_zps6b63239a.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0844_zpsafa3d987.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0854_zpse2ab3ae3.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0858_zps2afbe358.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0864_zpsa164c3c2.jpg)


Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on January 29, 2013, 06:37:13 PM
Something new again..

Sealed all the weldings from the car. Not so pretty now but hopefully it will slow down the rust from coming up.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0877_zps352ee814.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0879_zps5d132d8f.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0880_zps9bdce89d.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0887_zps3575fbec.jpg)

Painted also the inside of the car with a paintbrush.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0904_zps09767cce.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0906_zps725bc14d.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: 1973/126 on January 29, 2013, 08:54:49 PM
 Tate the car is starting to look good, can`t wait to see it finished.

 How did you fit the 600 gearbox and what did you need to modify? What drive shafts did you use?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on January 29, 2013, 09:13:32 PM
Tate the car is starting to look good, can`t wait to see it finished.

 How did you fit the 600 gearbox and what did you need to modify? What drive shafts did you use?

Thanks. Fitting 600 gearbox was quite easy. I had only to make custom fastenings to the body. I'm not sure which drive shafts I will use because I haven't got the tripods yet.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on January 30, 2013, 11:39:31 AM
Great stuff!! :good:

What a difference a little paint can make! :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on January 30, 2013, 08:36:14 PM
Great stuff!! :good:

What a difference a little paint can make! :thumbup

That is so true  :good:
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: KAL SPL on January 31, 2013, 10:33:56 AM
Excellent work looks sensational !
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 02, 2013, 04:06:43 PM
Thanks!!!

43,5kg of parts came from 126FAN.. Still waiting one box to arrive.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0918.jpg)

White.... mmm.... :)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0936.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0931.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0944.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 03, 2013, 08:03:41 PM
It's now painted.....  ;D  :P :wave

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0948.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 05, 2013, 05:55:18 PM
Doors etc in white primer

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0957.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0958.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0959.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0960.jpg)

Today was my luckyday because new seat covers came from Italy. They will replace the orginal ones. I chose a pretty nice color or what do you think?  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0963.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0962.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 06, 2013, 08:12:02 PM
Today third delivery came from 126FAN. It included new chrome bumpers etc etc...  :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: stuey on February 06, 2013, 08:42:55 PM
some awesome work here- i wish mine was coming along this well!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: wsmitwil on February 06, 2013, 09:21:00 PM

Looks really nice, special

Can I ask where you got those seat covers from  :$
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 07, 2013, 05:04:01 AM

Looks really nice, special

Can I ask where you got those seat covers from  :$

http://www.tappezzeriapantaleo.com/
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: wsmitwil on February 07, 2013, 08:54:19 AM

Thanks

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on February 07, 2013, 06:15:39 PM
Looking good!!!  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 12, 2013, 04:31:57 PM
Wheel arch extensions and air ducts painted

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0971.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0972.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0978.jpg)

903cc engine dismantled

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0980.jpg)

Bought a set of Yazaki gauges (made in Japan)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0985.jpg)

I also try to fit these dixie horns to my car...  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0986.jpg)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 16, 2013, 01:48:29 PM
Some parts powder coated

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0994.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0998.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Amateb8 on February 17, 2013, 12:17:58 PM
Absolutely amazing. The car will be better than when it left the factory. Keep up the fantastic work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 17, 2013, 04:51:52 PM
Today I gave some love to the engine block

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1009.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1011.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1026.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on February 17, 2013, 05:06:02 PM
 :good:
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Pete126 on February 17, 2013, 05:08:18 PM
Great Work Tate, Bit by bit its all coming together :thumbup I noticed that you have 4 backing plates powder coated, arn't you puting front discs on ;)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Tate on February 17, 2013, 05:15:40 PM
Great Work Tate, Bit by bit its all coming together :thumbup I noticed that you have 4 backing plates powder coated, arn't you puting front discs on ;)

Yes I'm putting discs in front.. those front backing plates wen't to powder coating by a mistake  :$
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Paint]
Post by: Pete126 on February 17, 2013, 05:30:29 PM
Great stuff ;D Looking forward to the next installment top quality work man :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on February 17, 2013, 08:13:08 PM
New parts from 126FAN

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1031.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Madd on February 18, 2013, 07:57:23 PM
A lot of colors. A lot of welding. A lot of cool solutions.
Great restoradion. Bravo.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on February 22, 2013, 09:18:36 PM
Thanks!

Something new again...  Engine simulations show that these Italian Design performance parts will increase engine power +5hp throughout the rev range.  :o  :o  ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1078.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on February 23, 2013, 08:36:08 AM
 :D LOL  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on February 28, 2013, 06:17:08 PM
New parts for the engine:
-Alternator
-Water pump
-all STD bearings
-STD piston rings
-full gasket set
-thermostat
-v belt
-headbolt set

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1083.jpg)

Closer inspection showed that one valve and rocker had been damaged.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1089.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1091.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on March 07, 2013, 07:39:43 PM
New intake and exhaust valves

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1112.jpg)

I bought crank wheel, valve train cover and crank sensor from Cinquecento 0.9. The seller lives in UK and he had a interesting way removing the parts from the engine..  ;D I prefer removing the nut, but he decided to cut the crankshaft  :o

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1105.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1106.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on March 08, 2013, 02:59:05 PM
Long waited goods from GAZ UK  :santa:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1116.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1118.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on March 25, 2013, 08:20:01 PM
Sleeve for intake manifold

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3607.jpg)

Sleeves for front A-arms

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3612.jpg)

Tripod conversion

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3618.jpg)

Microsquirt ECU + harness

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3621.jpg)

VAG ignition coil

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_3623.jpg)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on April 01, 2013, 07:00:26 PM
Easter.. good time to work with cars  ;)

Pedal assembly needed some love...

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1236.jpg)

...so I gave love.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1311.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1315.jpg)

Painted some other parts also

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1239.jpg)

Installed new bearings to rear hubs

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1296.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1308.jpg)

New brakes to rear

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1324.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1322.jpg)

This is how I left the car for now

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1327.jpg)







Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on April 01, 2013, 07:14:01 PM
 :thumbup Good progress, you make me jealous  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Landy-Pilot on April 02, 2013, 12:27:39 AM
Great restoration, inspired me to make a proper start on my 1980 deville. All your pictures provide excellent reference material.

Keep up the good work, look forward to more!!!

Regards Phil
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on April 03, 2013, 06:02:58 PM
Thanks guys! One medium setback came up with rear shocks. I bought new KYB shocks from 126FAN but they are too long to use with 17cm sport springs. So... once again I have to order shocks made by my wishes from GAZ UK...   :-X That means £££££ :$
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Pete126 on April 03, 2013, 06:42:22 PM
Hi Tate, Have you thought of extending the top mount to stop the spring falling out, I don't know if its posible to shorten and re-thread the top bar? I bought some lower rear sport springs and the gap with standard sockers is around 25mm, the spring just falls out when the car is jacked up :( so iv'e not fitted them yet.

P.S. Stop sending your crap weather over to the U.K. we want summer to start ;D 
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: thepuddlejumper on April 03, 2013, 07:27:35 PM
Hi if you slacken the anchorage bolts for the swing arm, lower the car down and re-tighten when the car is on the ground the rubber inserts in the anchorage bushes, if in good condition, will keep the swing arm up and the springs in place.  It is an awkward job to do in the drive.

Ralph
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on April 03, 2013, 07:52:36 PM
Hi Tate, Have you thought of extending the top mount to stop the spring falling out, I don't know if its posible to shorten and re-thread the top bar? I bought some lower rear sport springs and the gap with standard sockers is around 25mm, the spring just falls out when the car is jacked up :( so iv'e not fitted them yet.

P.S. Stop sending your crap weather over to the U.K. we want summer to start ;D  

Hi Pete, It would be possible but in my opinion the right way to do this is to fit a shorter shock. GAZ can manufacture shocks with stem/stem mounts, adjustable damping and with desired open/closed length. That sounds perfect but it will cost some money. On the other hand the "old rule" says that if you wan't good handling and chassis for your car, you should invest in shocks.

Ps.. I'm so sorry for the weather  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on April 03, 2013, 07:58:00 PM
Hi if you slacken the anchorage bolts for the swing arm, lower the car down and re-tighten when the car is on the ground the rubber inserts in the anchorage bushes, if in good condition, will keep the swing arm up and the springs in place.  It is an awkward job to do in the drive.

Ralph

Hi! That could work but I don't wan't to take the risk if in some situation the spring gets loose while rebounding.. In worst case scenario that could lead to fatal consequences   :headscratch:
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: 1973/126 on April 04, 2013, 07:54:20 AM
 You can buy shorter shocks on the internet.
 
 http://www.500mania.it/ns/index.php/store_gbr/prodotti/suspensions-and-brakes/shock-absorbers.html

 or you can try eBay Italy, you probably find them even cheaper.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Tate on April 09, 2013, 05:39:55 AM
Shocks sorted out...

Cylinder head fully overhauled with few tricks  8)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1339.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1341.jpg)

Something new for the front axle..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1387.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Engine]
Post by: Landy-Pilot on April 19, 2013, 10:34:03 AM
Tate we need an update its been 10 days!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on April 19, 2013, 05:02:30 PM
Tate we need an update its been 10 days!!
LOL  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on April 19, 2013, 08:07:58 PM
Hou-hou-hou..  ;D I've been very busy with the car.  :$ Every day after work I've been building this car and at the same time keeping in mind that I wan't this to be ready-to-drive in near future.

I have faced a couple of big setbacks.. front shocks which I ordered from GAZ were too long, so I had to send them back to UK and they will shorten them. Front wheel 4x98 wheel hub threads have taken some damage so I have to think some solution for it.

I have been very lazy taking new pictures but here are two new ones:

New brake master cylinder:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1432.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1432.jpg.html)

Then I gave a full refurbish for the front brake calipers: cleaning&paint and new sealings

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1436.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1436.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on April 21, 2013, 07:46:51 PM
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1440.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1440.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on April 21, 2013, 08:45:35 PM
 :good: Makes my happy, looking at it  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Landy-Pilot on April 22, 2013, 09:39:58 AM
That paint job looks sweeeeet!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: fixit on April 22, 2013, 06:16:19 PM
have you body sanded the paint?
 paint job looks brilliant
quick quick lock the shine in with polish (of your choice) for the ultimate wet look
 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on April 22, 2013, 06:55:09 PM
Thank you guys!

I have to shock you and confess that the paint is actually intended for heady-duty equipment. Therefore it has only 90% (at it's best) shine if you compare it to a car paint. This was my choice and I hope that it will be more stronger than basic car paint.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on April 29, 2013, 05:33:27 AM
Fu**ing stud bolts..  :cry: This already happened earlier but now I got it finished. Those front leaf spring bolts started to spin. I should have removed them already before painting the car but I was lazy :$

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1356.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1356.jpg.html)

This was so stuck that I couldn't remove it

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1360.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1360.jpg.html)

Fire in the hole!

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1374.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1374.jpg.html)

Then I made 2 x this

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1363.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1363.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1362.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1362.jpg.html)

Welded them

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1365.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1365.jpg.html)

2-component epoxy primer

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1473.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1473.jpg.html)

surface coat

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1482.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1482.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on April 29, 2013, 05:43:34 AM
Front wheel hub threads had taken some damage so I decided to drill the threads open and install stud bolts.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1464.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1464.jpg.html)

New horn

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1466.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1466.jpg.html)

New gas tank + level sensor

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1479.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1479.jpg.html)

Steering gear fully overhauled with new gaskets and oil

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1490.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1490.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Landy-Pilot on April 29, 2013, 09:58:02 AM
Looks like you've had a busy weekend!! Good Work
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Fiatos on April 29, 2013, 08:33:09 PM
Oh, you've welded the new stud bolts!
It's easy to renew the bolts when drill a hole from the interior. Then you must not weld and in future it's easy to renew it.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 04, 2013, 08:41:15 PM
New rubber sealings

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1511.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1511.jpg.html)

New steering column switch from forum user "midvillesb"

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1517.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1517.jpg.html)

Parcel shelf cover cleaned and washed

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1521.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1521.jpg.html)

High end hifi system waiting for installing.. (already installed but I have no pics yet)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1529.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1529.jpg.html)

New front suspension parts painted

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1554.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1554.jpg.html)

Same here

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1560.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1560.jpg.html)

Rod ends for front suspension arms

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1572.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1572.jpg.html)

Same with rubber covers

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1575.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1575.jpg.html)

My another 126 from 1975 has proven to be valuable in donating parts.. ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1541.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1541.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 14, 2013, 05:53:16 AM
Brake disc adapters with new steering knuckles

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1585.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1585.jpg.html)

Testing how they fit together

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1595.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1595.jpg.html)

Waiting for new springs

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1605.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1605.jpg.html)

Engine has still a lot to do

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1616.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1616.jpg.html)

In case you get thirsty while driving this beast...  ;D (windscreen washer fluid tank)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1641.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1641.jpg.html)

And last picture is the cherry on the top of this cake.... my new daily driver  :P Peugeot 205 1.4 Green with sunroof, central locking, electric windows, Gutmann 13" alloys etc  8)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1662.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1662.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: kev126 on May 14, 2013, 11:55:35 AM
Great work so far! Cool 205 :)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 18, 2013, 05:42:12 AM
New custom made stainless steel braided brake hoses with anti-acid fittings

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1683.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1683.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1688.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1688.jpg.html)

Intake manifold parts

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1667.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1667.jpg.html)

I had to make the intake hole slightly bigger

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1672.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1672.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 19, 2013, 06:08:07 AM
New custom made rear shocks finally came from GAZ. Damn they are nice...!  ;D  :P

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1699.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1699.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1700.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1700.jpg.html)

New orginal KYB rear vs. GAZ

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1706.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1706.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: 1973/126 on May 19, 2013, 07:56:53 AM
 Amazing.This is just getting better and better 8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 20, 2013, 06:00:47 AM
Thanks!  ;)

Front seat project.. My girlfriend decided to restore one pair of front seats. Result is amazing  8)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG-20130520-WA0002.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG-20130520-WA0002.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1714.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1714.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1712.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1712.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1728.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1728.jpg.html)

And at the same time I assembled the engine. Well it's not finished yet but I'm getting there...

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1725.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1725.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1743.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1743.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on May 20, 2013, 06:55:01 PM
The seat covers look amazing Tate your lass has done a great job :thumbup May be you ought to start manufacturing them  ;D Aren't we getting a little serious using a dial gauge on the rockers or are you pretending to dial the cam in  :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 22, 2013, 08:30:09 PM
The seat covers look amazing Tate your lass has done a great job :thumbup May be you ought to start manufacturing them  ;D Aren't we getting a little serious using a dial gauge on the rockers or are you pretending to dial the cam in  :P

Thanks Pete :) As you may know these high end race engines need to be adjusted 101% correctly  8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on May 22, 2013, 10:11:54 PM
Credit where credits due Tate 8) Its getting there :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on May 23, 2013, 05:54:06 AM
My engine team (that's me) is pushing hard to get the engine ready..

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1750.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1750.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 14, 2013, 06:55:42 PM
Hmmm... working hard or hardly working....  ::)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on June 14, 2013, 09:21:13 PM
I thought you were on holiday :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 16, 2013, 08:33:49 PM
Bump!!!  ;D

Girlfriend made these covers for front coilovers. Made from high quality material.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1839.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1839.jpg.html)

Spacer for clutch release bearing

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1887.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1887.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1888.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1888.jpg.html)

I had to modify the rear seat frame because of this:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0452.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0452.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1893.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1893.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1900.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1900.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1936.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1936.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1934.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1934.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1944.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1944.jpg.html)



Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 16, 2013, 08:40:36 PM
ATS alloys needed something.. well they got what they asked for...  :$ :o

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1502.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1502.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1901.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1901.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1906.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1906.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1913.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1913.jpg.html)

Last big paint project was the roof... I almost decided not to do this but I love the result...  :o  :P

First step was to fully cover the car

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1951.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1951.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1957.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1957.jpg.html)

Then I sanded the surface with P500

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1964.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1964.jpg.html)

Last step was to ruin the nice new white paint   8)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1965.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1965.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1970.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1970.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1987.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1987.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1984.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_1984.jpg.html)


Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on June 16, 2013, 09:16:34 PM
Amazing Tate, From this!
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0215.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_0215.jpg.html)

Your on the last leg now, all your hard work is now coming together   :wave
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on June 16, 2013, 09:52:36 PM
 :thumbup :good:  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: DeVilleChris on June 17, 2013, 12:32:05 AM
that is looking very nice, and the seat covers are great! Can i get a pair?  :P
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 20, 2013, 10:08:53 PM
Thanks!  ;)

I made these stainless steel pipes to the cooling system

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2023.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2023.jpg.html)

Then my friend TIG welded them

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2042.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2042.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2048.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2048.jpg.html)

After welding I made the pickling process (or what ever it is called in english)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2049.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2049.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2050.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2050.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2051.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2051.jpg.html)

This part reflects the hard engineering which is used to this car...  :D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2058.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2058.jpg.html)

All cooling pipes welded!

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2060.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2060.jpg.html)

Aeromystical box....  :o

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2062.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2062.jpg.html)

Engine bay

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2065.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2065.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 23, 2013, 07:44:22 PM
Most of the parts in the enginebay have started to find their place. It have taken a lot of time to think where and how to attach everything.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2155.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2155.jpg.html)

Today I also made the exhaust. I cutted the Yoshimura silencer because it was too long.  :$

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2126.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2126.jpg.html)

Then I welded the exhaust together from pieces and wrapped "thermotec" around it.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2152.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2152.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: DeVilleChris on June 23, 2013, 08:35:59 PM
that is looking really sweet
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on June 23, 2013, 09:10:11 PM
fantastic work, I make a deep bow!  :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: popik81 on June 26, 2013, 11:50:38 PM
tate have You headlights from 73??
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on June 30, 2013, 02:41:33 PM
Now visiting @ 126FAN in Zvolen, Slovakia  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on July 03, 2013, 03:36:22 PM
tate have You headlights from 73??

I bought new headlights from 126FAN.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: popik81 on July 03, 2013, 11:49:00 PM
tate have You headlights from 73??

I bought new headlights from 126FAN.

ok bt have You oryginal ones??
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on July 05, 2013, 07:54:30 PM
tate have You headlights from 73??

I bought new headlights from 126FAN.

ok bt have You oryginal ones??

Yes I have actually two used org. sets but I'm not planning on selling them..
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: popik81 on July 06, 2013, 11:52:57 PM
:( can You show me photo of them are they with only one bulb?? parking light is in turn sigal light??
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on July 10, 2013, 08:18:25 PM
Meanwhile in Finland

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/Anttipilkkii22012helmikuu.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/Anttipilkkii22012helmikuu.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on July 10, 2013, 08:27:02 PM
 :o :o (:> :o
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on July 10, 2013, 08:44:55 PM
 ;D

I have been doing electrics.. Didn't believe that electrics take so much time....  :-X

New ECU harness

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/DSC_2206.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/DSC_2206.jpg.html)

New relays

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/DSC_2219.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/DSC_2219.jpg.html)

Few extra gauges won't make no harm... right?  :D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/DSC_2229.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/DSC_2229.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: popik81 on July 11, 2013, 09:48:32 AM
You have snow now??? :o :o :o
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Kent126 on July 11, 2013, 07:37:38 PM
You are ice fishing in the snow in July!!!!????  :o :o :o :o

tom
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on July 11, 2013, 08:14:43 PM
Meanwhile in Finland

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/Anttipilkkii22012helmikuu.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/Anttipilkkii22012helmikuu.jpg.html)

You got to be kidding us :-X
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Tate on July 11, 2013, 08:17:04 PM
You guys are so serious.. of course I'm kidding..  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [Now: Everything]
Post by: Pete126 on July 11, 2013, 08:24:05 PM
Hey Tate weirder things have happened I can remember snow in June
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on July 14, 2013, 07:11:05 PM
Houston........we have a connection!!!!  :P I think that back in the 70's Fiat engineers didn't know that someday somebody will use a laptop to adjust the engine in this car :D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2237.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2237.jpg.html)

Today I also installed finally the wheel arch extensions... And oooouuh.... it like it a lot! :P It's really a dream come true for me.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2248.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2248.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2247.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2247.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on July 14, 2013, 09:08:01 PM
Great Stuff!!!  :) I really admire the work you've done!! :thumbup :thumbup
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on July 17, 2013, 09:29:50 PM
Houston........we have a connection!!!!  :P I think that back in the 70's Fiat engineers didn't know that someday somebody will use a laptop to adjust the engine in this car :D
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2237.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2237.jpg.html)

Is it by using an OBDII interface? I have to try and see if I can use that in my project, cool stuff!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on July 21, 2013, 08:51:51 PM
No it doesnt't have OBDII, but a serial connection instead.

Today I tried to start the car for the first time but no success yet....  :cry:
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: markymarc on July 24, 2013, 05:09:24 AM
Love the look of this car, some nice touches. Reminds me of a little Scalextric car?!

Marc
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on July 24, 2013, 06:17:03 AM
Love the look of this car, some nice touches. Reminds me of a little Scalextric car?!

Marc

Hehe...  ;) Thanks!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: Finishing...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on July 27, 2013, 11:06:11 AM
Its alive!!!!!!!  :P ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on July 27, 2013, 02:34:43 PM
 :wave
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Seabee1978126 on July 29, 2013, 08:18:54 AM
Congrats man!!!!  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on July 29, 2013, 08:58:36 PM
One step front and three steps back... Faced today one big setback with the gearbox&drive shafts... f*ck...  :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :-X :-X :-X :-X :-X
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on July 29, 2013, 09:34:12 PM
mm... sorry to hear... what's wrong?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Pete126 on July 29, 2013, 10:15:22 PM
I don't know whats wrong but your the man to sort it ;D (http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m152/pedro126/90ee2d1a-a95b-4edd-9538-b781de7ebf0e.jpg)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: DeVilleChris on July 29, 2013, 10:32:05 PM
Keep at it Tate!! its looking great!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on August 03, 2013, 09:49:44 PM
Engine running for the first time

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/th_MOV_2299.jpg) (http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/MOV_2299.mp4)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on August 04, 2013, 02:58:33 PM
 :thumbup :thumbup :thumbup NICE!!!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: popik81 on August 04, 2013, 07:37:44 PM
sweet....
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on August 17, 2013, 04:52:01 PM
Nothing real has really happened with this because I'm still stuck with the drive shaft problem..

I had to buy new springs though. The black springs are from 126FAN and they are "17,5cm". There was nothing wrong with them but the rear end of the car was sitting too low so I had to buy new ones. So I ordered these red "19,5cm" sport springs from fiat500ricambi.com and seems that they gave just what the rear end needed.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2346.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2346.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2348.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2348.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2357.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2357.jpg.html)

I've also made this oil cooler kit for my car

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2390.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2390.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Amateb8 on August 17, 2013, 05:02:05 PM
Bloody hell. Amazing!!!!!!! Absolutely, an engineering feat. There is definitely light at the end of the tunnel now. Keep up the fantastic work!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on September 11, 2013, 06:05:21 AM
I've been struggling between drive shaft problem & lack of motivation.. :$ So yesterday finally I got the drive shaft problem sorted out. Now the original drive shaft from Fiat 600 has been modified. Also a sleeve was made which has two needle roller bearings and an axial sealing. This was made because I have Fiat 600 gearbox installed and the drive shaft comes in an modest angle out from the gearbox resulting that the original cover rubber gets wringled. And if you would go driving with that setup the lifetime of the inner cover rubber would be max. 100km and gearbox oil would drain out.

Original setup (rubber rubs to the drive shaft)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2304.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2304.jpg.html)

Measuring the drive shaft

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2423.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2423.jpg.html)

Drive shaft sealing area was modified to be wider

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2481.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2481.jpg.html)

Cover sleeve was made and it includes needle roller bearings in both ends and a axial sealing

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2489.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2489.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2496.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2496.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2504.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2504.jpg.html)

The sealing rubber (from a Citroen C5) and the cover sleeve will stay on and the drive shaft will rotate.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2508.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2508.jpg.html)

And here it is installed to the car.. (axial sealing not installed in the picture)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2474.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/DSC_2474.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: michaelodonnell500 on September 11, 2013, 03:37:44 PM
That's a very nice solution, it must be frustrating when you find these issues you had never even considered at the start! Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: kev126 on September 11, 2013, 04:10:20 PM
Some excellent work here, Tate :)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on September 13, 2013, 06:10:22 AM
Thanks guys!
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on September 28, 2013, 05:10:19 AM
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/IMG_4689.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/IMG_4689.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on September 28, 2013, 08:49:07 AM
 :thumbup :thumbup :wave :yahoo:

and:

 :good: :good:
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: candanoglu on October 06, 2013, 02:00:23 PM
perfect job.
but we need more photo )
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Kowalski on October 08, 2013, 07:56:28 PM
...mine is whiter...



 :D :D


Hi Tate,

top thread and the car looks perfect

driveshaft length is standard?
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Kowalski on October 08, 2013, 08:01:02 PM
double post
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on October 09, 2013, 06:07:59 AM
Thanks! It has been a long journey for me and the car. Drive shafts are from Fiat 600 and the length is standard.

And I will upload more pictures soon  :o  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on October 09, 2013, 08:07:20 PM
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4684.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4684.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4694.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4694.jpg.html)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss196/tatex1/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4693.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/tatex1/media/Fiat%20126%20-73/IMG_4693.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: DeVilleChris on October 09, 2013, 09:12:26 PM
Looks immaculate tate. Really nice job!!  ;D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: popik81 on October 09, 2013, 11:01:45 PM
lovely, but You need green doors cards... and light(in colur) carpet
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Kowalski on October 10, 2013, 09:20:03 AM
Loving the rear camber.
It's so low, Tate, how's the ride in your 126? (by 126 standards...)

Oh... don't forget your plates before you go anywhere...just an advice, mind  :D

Cheers,

Andre
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: maranellohouse on December 23, 2013, 02:17:41 PM
Tate I put a post up only an hour a go asking if anyone had fitted a Panda engine to a 126 as I was thinking of doing it and Pete kindly pointed me to your thread.
Brilliant stuff with fantastic results Sir.

They say copying is a kind of flattery so I hope you don't mind if I follow your ideas when I start my build. I do intend to use a 1992 Panda 1000 engine.
Can I ask is it possible to use the 126 gearbox though as I suspect a 600 box might be hard enough to acquire.

Top job, your skills are excellent.
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on December 27, 2013, 07:02:00 PM
Tate I put a post up only an hour a go asking if anyone had fitted a Panda engine to a 126 as I was thinking of doing it and Pete kindly pointed me to your thread.
Brilliant stuff with fantastic results Sir.

They say copying is a kind of flattery so I hope you don't mind if I follow your ideas when I start my build. I do intend to use a 1992 Panda 1000 engine.
Can I ask is it possible to use the 126 gearbox though as I suspect a 600 box might be hard enough to acquire.

Top job, your skills are excellent.

Feel free to copy anything you wan't. I used gearbox from a 600 because it's said to be more stronger than original and no adapter plate between engine and gearbox is needed.

Thanks and good luck with your project!

Loving the rear camber.
It's so low, Tate, how's the ride in your 126? (by 126 standards...)

Oh... don't forget your plates before you go anywhere...just an advice, mind  :D

Cheers,

Andre

Andre, I have to admit that I haven't really driven with my car because I run out of summer.. I can answer your question not until next year :D

lovely, but You need green doors cards... and light(in colur) carpet

Yes green door cards would been nice but it seems impossible to find them with reasonable price??

Looks immaculate tate. Really nice job!!  ;D

Thanks!!!  8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on September 24, 2019, 04:54:00 PM
I'm back. 8)
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: pietschokkenbroek on September 27, 2019, 09:56:30 AM
  :) How are you? And how is the car??  :D
Title: Re: Fiat 126 -73 restoration [ Now: It's ALIVE...!!! :) ]
Post by: Tate on September 28, 2019, 06:29:48 PM
  :) How are you? And how is the car??  :D

I'm fine... I had a long (many many years) break from all of my car hobbies. I have had other things to do + other intrests. However I still own my 126, and it's pretty much in that condition what I left it when I last wrote here. It's a sad story that I kind of had a "burnout" with this car.  :cry: I worked so hard to enjoy the car and when it was about to be ready it didnt work as I planned. Thats why I lost all my "fire" to car building and it has not really been intrest since that.

So what's the plan then? I would really like to drive this car summer 2020. I have never been satisfied by the engine/gearbox combination. It could have worked just fine but it would need few bigger modifications to work 100%. Thats why I have decided to remove engine/gearbox from my car and do some metal work to fit the "original" engine and gearbox back in the car.