Re: [T3] Restoring a Fastback

[Steven Ayres <comwest@well.com>]

Tim=> Anything I should be aware of in a Fastback that has run once in 
   => 25 years?

Great story, Tim, welcome to the list!

* If you haven't already, get a good manual and a carb sync tool.

* Renew all the fabric fuel lines with good German metric hose. They're 
  too old to rely on now, whatever their apparent condition. If you have 
  a vacuum advance, replace that line too.

* Tank the carbs and fuel pump to clean out the varnish. Do *not* let 
  that original German T3 pump escape your grasp, it's special. You may 
  get lucky and not need to clean the tank and hardlines, but don't bet 
  money on it. Buy a couple of spare filters, you'll probably need 'em 
  while the assorted crap gets washed through. Get rebuild kits for the 
  carbs. Check that your balance pipe is tight, no cracks or looseness 
  at the ends. 

* Clean and reoil the air cleaner. Check that the intake air boot is in 
  good shape, and make sure you don't have a mouse nest or something in 
  there. 

* Check the torque on the head nuts.

* Drain and replace the brake fluid (with silicone if you can afford it) 
  and check carefully for leaks from the MC, rear wheel cylinders and 
  flex lines. Check the brake drums and rotors for rust. Evaluate the 
  tires carefully, you'll probably want new. 

* Take an afternoon and clean all the electrical contacts -- you're 
  gonna need to do this anyway eventually, so you might as well do it 
  all at once and save yourself a lot of diagnostic frustration later.

* Flush and replace the transaxle oil.

* Regrease the front end. Make sure to get all four grease points.

* Give your upholstery a few passes with vegetable oil or something to 
  soften the vinyl before you let anybody sit in it.

* Expect the windshield washer hose to blow the first time you 
  presâƒàÉt.

* If it has stock seat belts in good shape, remove them immediately and 
  send them to me. 

Good luck, sounds like you've got a sweetie there.

Steven Ayres, Prescott AZ
'66 Big Ghia

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