Tuning Clutch and Trans Power Handling

[Hutbed]

I've seen a lot of 30+ hp build, but nothing on what the original clutch or trans can handle for hp or tq. I think the search function is broken as well, I search in "500 Classic and child forums" but get results for all models. TIA
Andrew, '72 500L

 

[the hobbler]

Where about in Italy do you live? I would suggest that you find out where the next 'Raduno' is in your area, go along to it and chat to as many owners of tuned (both Abarth and Giannini) Cinquecentos as you can. Find out who the local 'top man' regarding these cars is, and then go and have a chat with him/them.
In the UK, 'Middle Barton Garage' do a 'clutch upgrade' kit of pressure plate, centre plate and release bearing, but as you are in the Cinquecento's homeland, you should be able to source the correct clutch assembly, and engine tuning parts, without too much trouble. Although "Abarth" is the iconic Fiat tuner, when it comes to the 500, Giannini was just as good, if not a shade better, in extracting power from the little engines.

 

[Hutbed]

I'm in Sicily near Catania, not as many reputable shops I've found yet but I'm sure they're out here somewhere. My 500L is original except a trans synchro update, and I kind of hate to end that, but I will retain everything to ensure it can be rebuilt to original. I love the car but fear heavy wear by pushing it to its limits every time I want to go over 70 kph.

 

[the hobbler]

I think that we have a couple of Forum members who live in Sicily, might be worthwhile trying to contact them. I would be very surprised if there were no 'Radunos' in Sicily, so that might still be your best way of finding out who are the best people to go to.
70kph?---that is only 44mph! take my word for it, you won't bust a 500 by driving it at over 70kph. You might find it running out of breath at 95kph if the engine is standard. Don't forget, these engines were designed by an Italian (and he was a bloody good designer) for the use by Italians! Admittedly, my engine is tuned, and I run the car on 13in wheels, but on dual-carriageways (and normal 'A' roads where the law allows) I drive at a steady 60mph (96kph), and often "a shade" more!

 

[the hobbler]

Try looking at the web-site:---"Fiat 500 club Sicilia" They can tell you where the radunos are and who are the best mechanics to work on your car. If you are living (as against visiting) in Sicily, I would recommend that you join the club.

 

[Hutbed]

I really appreciate the help, I'll look for that group. For the 13" wheels- did your car come with the 98mm or 190mm bolt pattern? I've been looking for 13" wheels to fit, but with the 190 pattern I've only seen one set of 13's available at a staggering price. Lastly, mine CAN hit 100 kph, but the engine is screaming and I don't dare keep it there long.

 

[the hobbler]

When I bought my 500 it already had Mk2 (652cc) Fiat 126 hubs and brakes fitted. These hubs reverted to the Fiat 'standard' 98mm PCD. All the 500s and the Mk2 (594cc) 126s had 190 PCD wheel bolts. My car is lowered, with extended wheel arches fitted; which in order to fit, had the original wheel arches cut back (and re-welded to the wheel-arch inner panels to retain wing rigidity). This enable me to fit the 13in wheels (13 x 5.5in Cromadora Mag alloys).
If you are going to retain the original brakes, I would stick to 12in wheels. These can be obtained in a variety of widths and styles. The Mk1 126 wheels will fit your car, and are 4ins wide, as against the normal 500 wheels which are only 3.5ins wide. I expect that in Italy you will also be able to obtain slightly wider steel wheels, which will look standard when the wheel-trims are re-fitted.
Definitely join the 500 club of Sicily---most of your questions will be answered by other members, as will where to get the parts to answer your questions.