I'm about to get started on My project car, a 1980 Fiat 124 spider 2000. I was surprised to learn that the total weight capacity for the whole vehicle is only 350 lb. I'm not sure if anyone's familiar with this car particular but what kind of things can I do to stiffen up the frame to have a higher weight capacity? Does anyone know if frame stiffening foam is worth a darn? Thank you! I know suspension parts will need to be modified to hold a higher weight but I'm more concerned about bending the frame.
I've known several people over the years who have owned Fiat 124 Spyders, and currently have a friend who owns one. (In fact I've helped him work on it and have driven the car.) None of them added frame stiffening or had any frame-related problems aside from the typical Fiat issue of dealing with rust.
I was surprised to learn that the total weight capacity for the whole vehicle is only 350 lb.
That's the maximum safe weight. Cars are dynamic vehicles. A car can technically withstand more than 350 lbs of added weight and be dynamic, but it's not rated for more than 350 pounds.
Does anyone know if frame stiffening foam is worth a darn?
I wouldn't think so, but I don't know of any kind of foam that's supposed to be structural. You'd need to be a mechanical engineer to ascertain that anyways. I wouldn't bet on using "foam" to strengthen a chassis. That's a disaster waiting to happen, literally.
I’m sure an old convertible like that is gonna be pretty floppy by now. A little frame stiffening is probably in order.
I know they make prefab kits for Miata’s that just bolt on and reinforce the weak spots. Maybe there is something similar for fiat. I’d email your regional club and see if they know anything.
