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Originally Posted by Catdaddy60
Having spent a few years and tears in and on ALFAs I have some pointers If you would like. The body is a fun worthwhile project pay particular attention to the lower side panels as these are structural and have a tendency to rust. The rust you show is pretty common and while fixable is a pain. The suspension can be enhanced by adjustable upper control arms in front for camber and spacing the spring perches on the lower spring plates be VERY careful with the front springs they are preloaded very heavy and will hurt you if you do not respect them. the rear suspension can be helped with the usual bushings and shocks but if you really want to go all out look for the GTA "sliding block" suspensions on Auto Delta cars of that vintage. The Transmissions are good and solid. The engine, the "2 liter" has some issues in the head that you will spend a lot of money and effort trying to correct the port flow and frankly you are better off seeing if a newer ALFA will bolt up ALFA uses a ECOTECH engine that was used in the Cavalier Colbalt that is a better engine has more HP potential and is more reliable I'm not sure which model ALFAs used it but it is a better option. having said that if you do choose the 2000 one of the things to pay attention to is the head gasket. The manual states to torque to some thing like 40 lbs the in 5 lbs increments to 60 or 65 lbs to make the Gasket live longer torque to the initial setting then go 5 lbs for a couple of round the 2 lbs to to the end torque setting. This helps the head stay in one plane and even. It DOES make a difference. Good luck with your car and yes thank you for serving.
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Thanks for the detailed input. It's much appreciated.
Scott