Help me build a Duetto racer!

[Nader]

I just picked up a 69 Spider roller, already stripped down to bare metal. Plan to go vintage racing in the Pacific Northwest's SOVREN and maybe VARA if I relocate to California. I have a racing background in Spec Miata, but that format's standardization left me unprepared to build up a vintage racer. So I have a bunch of questions:

1. Suspension/brakes recipe? Need advice on springs, shocks, rear suspension mods (Panhard, Watts, sliding block?), brake upgrades, and where to source it all.

2. Cage fabrication. This will be custom built, but can someone point me to a resource? Even pictures of other people's cages (preferably D/E Prod Spiders) would be helpful.

3. I think I have the engine covered, but I understand that the block needs to be drilled for oiling the bearings. What are the specifics on this, and can any machine shop do it?

I'm sure I'll have more questions later, and thanks in advance for any advice.

[italcarguy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nader I just picked up a 69 Spider roller, already stripped down to bare metal. Plan to go vintage racing in the Pacific Northwest's SOVREN and maybe VARA if I relocate to California. I have a racing background in Spec Miata, but that format's standardization left me unprepared to build up a vintage racer. So I have a bunch of questions: 1. Suspension/brakes recipe? Need advice on springs, shocks, rear suspension mods (Panhard, Watts, sliding block?), brake upgrades, and where to source it all. 2. Cage fabrication. This will be custom built, but can someone point me to a resource? Even pictures of other people's cages (preferably D/E Prod Spiders) would be helpful. 3. I think I have the engine covered, but I understand that the block needs to be drilled for oiling the bearings. What are the specifics on this, and can any machine shop do it? I'm sure I'll have more questions later, and thanks in advance for any advice.

[Chi Si Dici]

Just a token of inspiration.

[msiert]

Here is a great resource of information about "Alfa Romeo Vintage Racing" also read "British vs Yanks in spring rates" in the Motorsport section for suspension set ups.

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/alfaracing/

[Subtle]

Sweet---the Duetto always looked better without the windscreen!!!

[Randal Harris]

Do not expect to get the fender flares past many (or any) vintage race tech inspectors. Even VARA bans them.

Anthony is right. Get copies of the organization's rule book and follow it "closely". Most organizations have the rules posted on thier web sites.

Randy Harris

[genericwood]

Nader, sent you a PM. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Shocks - Koni Yellows are a good place to start. Springs - lots of options, but to start you may want a matched set from Beck or Rugh. Brakes - your rules will likely require stock calipers and rotors. That's not a problem. Get good race pads, vent some air to them and go. Rear Suspension - although a Watts has theoretical advantages, the easier and cheaper way to go is with a Panhard. Block - what you want to do is drill the #2 and #4 mains for direct oiling (as opposed to through the crank). I wouldn't trust any machine shop for this. Lots of Alfa geared shops do it, however.

Hope that helps.

Erik

[Wil Painter]

Nader:
There are some great vintage racers in the NW who can help you with local rules, parts, prep tips, and machine shop services. I'd contact AlfaBBers George Willet and Just Call Me Fred for some local advice.
Good luck with your project!!
Wil

[Nader]

Thanks for all the advice. I'm currently stripping the sound-deadening and fixing some minor rust. Plan to coat the interior with POR-15.

The SOVREN rules make it sound like gutting is minimal; that the carpet and passenger seat is still required. Doesn't make sense when you can still remove the windshield on an open car.

Anyone know more about the limits of gutting? Can I get rid of the heater, wiring harness, door panels, etc? Anyone know how stringent SOVREN is about this? Thanks.