© 2021
project # 1
Early 124 unit
Restoration work currently underway (unit number 20xxx - early series).
Cleaning the chassis
Chassis after removal of components
Underside of chassis
Final result
The area around the motor mounts is stained but all the underside will benefit from a good clean with isopropyl alcohol as well. All the threads were also cleaned with laquer thinner and restored with proper metric taps (M3.5x0.60 M5x0.80 M7x1).
This is the final result after cleaning the paint with laquer thinner and carefully removing most of the stains with isopropyl alcohol.
The original paint is in very good condition, although this specimen shows casting defects quite common especially in the series 1 version. The area below the idler wheel is badly affected by rubber stains.
Speed change apparatus
After careful degreasing and cleaning with isopropyl alcohol and a quick rinse in the ultrasonic cleaner using an acetone bath (word of caution: the speed selection lever and the fine speed adjustment dial were soaked in soapy water and manually washed), the speed selection assembly is ready to be reinstalled in the chassis. As shown in the image on the right, the 60 year old grease had dried so the separation of the parts required an extractor (yes, the extraction cost 1 euro cent!).
