Buying an Alfa, what to look out for

[Alrxate]

Hi guys, my first time being on this site.
I just need help knowing what I should look out for, when buying an Alfa Spider 1999 Twin Spark.
The owner told me the timing belt needs to be changed, other than that, there is nothing wrong with the car.

-So how much does it cost to change a timing belt,
-what other things should I look out for in the car Tomorrow?
-are there any faults with these cars? or special care or servicing required that I need to keep mindful of?

Thanks heaps

[colcol]

Check for a good complete service record, to find out what hasn't been done, the timing belts are every 3 years or 50,000klms, [i know not long], the waterpump has to be changed every second cam belt change, there is also a engine balance shaft belt and 3 tensioners that have to be changed as well.
The engines use 10-40 fully synthetic racing oil, some twin sparks like a drink and this oil level has to be checked every week.
Take it to an Alfa Specialist Service provider who will know what to look for.
There is a really great Spider for sale in Melbourne at the moment, look at the for sale part of this Forum, saw it a couple of weeks ago, it would be worth a trip to Melbourne to have a look at it, Colin.

[massiveluvbuddy67]

Yes, John Hanslow's TS spider is for sale and it is a very good car. It has been well looked after and serviced by the right people. He is selling too cheap! 
I have no financial interest.
Best Regards
Phil
Editor

[Cool Jesus]

Yep, be wary if it has little or no service history. If it looks unloved, expect some issues to arise in the near future. These, indeed all, Alfas are capable of enthusiastic driving, as Alfa describes it. It shouldn't be sluggish or a harsh ride on the road. Alfas are a drivers car, not a mode of transport. If it doesn't put a smile on your face, then find another.
Not sure what your budget is, but you certainly could do worse than john's spider, as mentioned. It's a realistic, if not low price, for what will be a very well maintained and loved Alfa.

[Alrxate]

Thank you all for the replies guys Much appreciated

I'll most likely buy the car, I have put down deposit on it. The car looked OK as a whole. The drive however, was lovely!
I just need to get the timing belt changed and it should be fine.

Another issue is the roof, apparently it leaks inside (between the passenger door and corner) a bit when raining. I just need to know how to fix that, I guess it shouldn't cost more than $50?

Second question: Where can I take the car to a mechanic that will change the timing belt properly and for a low price?

P.S John's car seems to be in mint condition, but im not able to travel to melbourne to buy a car

Cheers!

[colcol]

If you want a cheap job done on your timing belt, go to a franchised service network, if you want it done properly by a service provider that has the proper cam locks and expertise, take it to a Alfa Romeo service provider, they have most likely done this job hundreds of times before, should cost $800 - $1,100 depending on what is replaced and source of parts, genuine vs non genuine.
Have a look on the N.S.W. Alfa Romeo Club supporters page and see who is close to you, come on N.S.W. Alfa Club members, any suggestions?, Colin.

[lombardi]

I can highly recommend MAX ODDI in leichardt as a very honest and capable alfa specialist, also FRANKS PIT STOP MOTORS in liverpool rd ashfield is a good alfa establishment, Tony the workshop man is a legend way back from the 80s and as kept up with modern day alfas, have used both workshops with much satisfaction.  enjoy your new toy. regards