Frequently asked questions about FIAT Tipo 16V
Which versions of the car have ABS systems fitted?
ABS (antilock braking system) was an factory fitted option on all versions
of the car. It cost about £750 and I don't believe that it can be
fitted after delivery. I was under the impression that it was standard
equipment on all 16V models and regrettably did not bother to check.
If you are unsure it is quite easy to detect the presence of ABS under
the bonnet. If ABS is fitted to the car then there will be a small box of
tricks located close to the master cylinder. The four brake pipes will
come out of this unit. If the car does not have ABS fitted the four brake
pipes will come straight out of the master brake cylinder and the area
around this will look far simpler.
Fiat made ABS an option on the 16v because they claimed that this gives the
driver the more choice about their driving style
(i.e. some drivers may want the natural non-ABS feel).
Are there any cheap replacement brake calipers?
Calvin Jones'
rear brake caliper seized. He was quoted £150 for a new one which
was more than he wanted to pay. He discovered that the rear brake
caliper from a FIAT 125 saloon (circa about 1968) could be
used. Although the unit
looked different, when stripped the parts were interchangeable. He thinks
that the same running gear was also used on FIAT X-19s.
How do I stop my brakes from squeeling?
Nareman Virk says that you should
put some copper grease between the brake block and the piston. Under braking
the brakes vibrate and the copper grease prevents the metal on metal
squeel that's heard. Please be VERY careful not to get any grease on
either the brake discs or the active side of the brake pad. Only a small
abount of grease should be needed.
What other brakes fit the tipo?
Alexis Grant says that the Tipo 16V front
brake discs are shared with:
- Fiat Coupe (non turbo) 1.8 16v, 2.0 16v, 2.0 20v
- Dedra 2.0 turbo
- Alfa 145/146 1.8/2.0 16v
- 155 2.0 twin spark 16
- Fiat Marea 2.0 20v, 1.9 TDS