Re: need help w/Spica Spider

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@domain.elided>]

Hi Peter:

First, check the coolant level.  Beyond that, this sounds like a classic 
case of the TA (thermostatic actuator) beginning to fail.  With the engine 
cold, look at the gap on the control lever (that's the piece the long 
linkage rod connects to).  Then, look again after the engine has warmed 
up.  The gap should have grown considerably smaller, and should be about 
0.019" (measured between the lever and the reference screw on the pump 
body).  If the gap doesn't close enough when the engine is warm, the engine 
will run too rich, which explains it not wanting to idle, while still 
running OK at high revs.

If all that was Greek to you, look at:

http://alfaclub.org/techstff/tunespca.htm

Don't take any abuse from anyone who insists you buy the AROC Spica 
manual.  The AROO tune-up procedure is easier to follow and yields the same 
result.  I wouldn't go through the whole process of checking the throttle 
bellcrank, synchronization, etc., if your car has recently run well.  Pay 
close attention to the parts about the TA, and setting the gap.

Regards,

Dean W. Cains
Lutz, FL
'74 Spider Veloce


At 07:12 PM 5/30/2002, you wrote:

> Date: Thu, 30 May 2002 16:36:48 +0000
> From: "PETER FUGEDI" <cybertrance@domain.elided>
> Subject: need help w/Spica Spider
>
> I have a 79 spider with SPICA that stalls out once warmed up.  It runs fine
> when cold.  But after a few minutes when the thermostat opens up and the
> temp goes up, it won't idle.  It will stall out if I don't keep the RPMs
> above at least 1500.  It runs fine at higher RPM, but can't let it idle.
> Also, now when my thermostat opens, the engine temps immediately jumps from
> 140 to 212 Fahrenheit. (low end of the gauge to high end)  I am not sure
> where to start troubleshooting on this car.  I used to have an 82 w/BOSCH,
> but this is my first SPICA car.  Any suggestions would be greatly
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Peter in Los Angeles
> 79 spider
> 88 milano
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