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100% self-restored by Alex and Greta

"This Fiat 500 dates back to 1971 and was bought by Alex in October 2017. From the beginning it was clear that everything should be done by ourselves. The goal for the Fiat was that it looks original on the outside and has modern features hidden on the inside.
The engine was still running when we bought it - but the condition of the sheet metal was very poor. The previous owner had welded rust holes and partially processed sheet metal on sheet metal. When taking it apart, even larger rust holes came to light, especially in the underbody area.

It started with a complete disassembly down to the body shell.
All parts were completely stripped of paint, the rust holes were cut out and repaired. If necessary, for example with the sub-floor, completely new sheet metal parts were used, but in most cases those also had to be adjusted. Alex also made many parts himself so that they would fit perfectly.

When the roughest work on the sheet metal was completed, the subject of painting it came up. When choosing the colors we used the original FIAT 500 color card from 1971. Now all metal sheets have been primed, filled and sanded. When the last sheet of clear lacquer was dry, around nine months had passed.

In order to have a break from sanding metal parts we worked on the new covers for the seats and the back seat from time to time. For this purpose the old covers were separated and templates were made for the new cut. The door panels were also covered with the same material.

After the long preparatory work and paintwork, the Fiat was reassembled piece by piece. Aligning the doors turned out to be a challenge again - the Italians weren't too careful about the gaps, but Alex was.
The electrical system got reconnected, the engine was built in and the rusted and repainted petrol tank was reinstalled.
The windows and roof are well sealed so that no water can get through. To reduce the noise, we clad the interior with aluminum butyl and insulation mats. Then we fit the carpet and installed the seats and back seat.

The entire FIAT has been given a grease-based cavity seal.
We replaced the original 18 HP engine with the larger 650 cc. At the front, disc brakes are used instead of drum brakes. In addition, the FIAT is equipped with 30 mm lower springs. In addition, cone dampers (shock absorbers) and a sports exhaust were installed. Seat heating is integrated in the seats. A 12 V socket for the cool box and USB slots are also installed invisibly. Finally a speaker was installed.

 

In August 2020, the FIAT received TÜV approval (German technical supervision) for the first time and without any complaints. The whole project took us a little more than 2.5 years. An appraisal was also drawn up on the same day - the auditor was enthusiastic about the quality of the work.
Since the FIAT project is a long-term project, further changes are of course being planned:
more HP (currently 28 HP), 5-speed gearbox with self-constructed drive shafts, roof racks for traveling ... In September 2020 we went to Rome, that was our biggest trip so far! "


We are thrilled about this unbelievable restoration achievement and wish Greta and Alex a lot of fun with their little dream car! If you want to stay up to date, you should definitely follow their Instagram profile @500waysof_fiat!

 

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