166

[fatboy69]

I am thinking of sinking just under £1k into a 166 2.0 TS 16 Valve Lusso with just under 100k on the clock & full service history up to 88k miles.

I know nothing at all about Alfa's - apart from the fact this one looks bloody gorgeous - however i do know that they have dodgy electrics & can be a little temperamental.

So what should i look out for? Do they need belts changing or do they have chains? IF belts, at what mileage should they be done & how much should i budget to get them done properly.

Are they a potential money pit?

Any help appreciated before i go look at the car.

[crostonian]

Belts are due every 36k miles, also need to change the tensioner, and possibly the water pump on a car of that age. If it sounds like a diesel then the cam variator needs changing as well. Later cars from 2001 approx had a 6 speed box which helped to extract the somewhat limited performance. The suspension can be a bit soft and creaky due to the numerous bushes in the suspension both front and rear.

Overall though they are quite well built, press all the buttons and make sure everything works, otherwise buy on condition and how it drives.

[fatboy69]

Thank you for your reply. Sadly i got beaten to the punch & some other lucky sod has bagged a great looking car.

[1878]

Were you inspired by the recent Shed Of The Week article? If not, give it a read, I'm sure there are a few useful hints i there amongst all the predictable comments! Though Crostonian pretty much nails it - servicing, belts/pump etc/electrics/suspension which is pretty much a service item even on lighter cars so it must take a real hammering from the extra weight of the 166.

[arguti]

Jamie porters guides cover the basics

http://www.alfaworkshop.co.uk/alfa_romeo_166_guide...

The big one is the leaking heater matrix


http://www.alfaowner.com/Forum/alfa-164-and-166/22...

[fatboy69]

I have missed out one two decent looking 166's in the last week as well as a cracking 156 this morning for less than a grand.

Missed that one as i wasnt outside the dealers at 8.30am this morning unlike the git who was, paid cash & drove it off the forecourt!!!

bd.

The search continues.....

[joncon]

brother in law has a alfa 166 2 litre 16v
'52 plate with 25,000 miles , full service history
pm me if you are interested