1978 1600

[arminius]

I picked up my Beta today, advertised on this forum. It is my first Beta.

http://www.betaboyz.myzen.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=2761.0

Its a one owner from new car. Used from 1979-1983 and stored since.

Body wise, the front of the sills have suffered, there are pin holes in the tops of the doors, and below the bonnet catch. The boot area is as new, really lovely, the floors are the same, so are the sills (apart from the aforementioned front sections). This is all external inspection with the vehicle unstripped, so I expect it could be worse, but nevertheless it looks superficially encouraging.

The front wings are both poor, and I cannot inspect the strut tops because the bonnet mechanism has seized. Is there a way to get at the lock so i can free it off?

So, i am hunting for a exploded parts list (if such a thing exists?), either in paper or pdf format. I presume having sat for such a long time the engine will want stripping. It isnt seized, has been dry stored, but I am unsure how well these engines sit, and whether a very careful awakening is a waste of time? (i.e flush, belts / filter/ fluids, turning over without igntion, start, drain and new fluids again)

Looking forward to contributing.

Will


 

[Neil-yaj396]

Welcome aboard Will

Re the bonnet it might be worth trying a good tug on the release cable under the wheel arch, that has worked for me in the past. You will have to get under the wheel arch liner, if fitted.

If the engine turns over freely I would give your method a go. The engines are pretty sturdy. The carburetor will need a thorough clean too.

Neil

[HFStuart]

Will,

You have pm.

Welcome along.

[arminius]

Re the bonnet it might be worth trying a good tug on the release cable under the wheel arch, that has worked for me in the past. You will have to get under the wheel arch liner, if fitted.

Thanks for the tip Neil, I gave this a go this morning, no joy. I can see the leading edge of the latch behind the grill, I am thinking i can fashion something to try and give the lever a push. Do you have a picture to hand of the lock from above you could show me, and perhaps explain the actuation of the part?

Thanks.

[Neil-yaj396]

Check out this thread;

http://www.betaboyz.myzen.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1828.0e

It includes a picture of a bonnet catch. The pre-facelift type like yours isn't as chunky, but works on the same principle.

I've just realised which car you have bought. I would guess that the engine will need a full strip down. Lots of work ahead!

[lanciamad]

Welcome to Beta ownership Will. Glad another car is on the way to being saved.
Enjoy your project. Marcus.