3/30/11
330 GTS

We had a convertible and and a coupe versions of the 330GT at the shop in matching color combinations. The GTC is ready to go home, and the GTS is in for a major service.

The GTS is one of my favorite Ferraris. It’s the got a lot going for her; good handling, classic understated looks, torquey engine, true 5 speed transmission in the form of a trans axle, and a convertible. What’s not to like?

This car is new to our shop, and after a test drive, we found her to be in very nice shape.

The first thing I check on any new 330GTC or 330GTS to me is whether the shock mounts were repaired. Unfortunately, this car was not fixed. The front shock towers on GTCs and GTSs were part of a recall notice from Ferrari that warned about stress cracks and suspension failures due to the an inadequate amount of support for the coil-over-shock of the front suspension. An official letter was sent out in 1970 to fix this problem:

The letter was the result of two fatal accidents in the late 60s that caused the left shock mount to break and lock the steering shaft. You can see how the failure of this piece would jam into the steering u-joint.

I’m asking for anyone who has a 330GTC or 330GTS to check for this repair. Any competent welder can strengthen this shock mount, and it could save a life! 

Another disaster was averted when I found a badly chipped valve adjuster screw. Most of the other adjusters were showing light pitting, but this one wore enough past the tip that a chunk broke off.

The exhaust side of the matching adjuster was fine.

The top of the valve showed a light divot, but looked O.K. The mark does not look like it wore past the surface hardening.

Reminder: If you have a Ferrari related project, car, or idea you’d like to explore, I’d love to talk to you. I can also help if you’re thinking of buying or selling. This website represents what I love to do, share, and how I make a living, so if you’d like to do something together, let me know. It all begins with an e-mail!

Save the Date! Fourth Annual Radcliffe/Tomyang.net Spring Car Show on Saturday May 7th 2011. Richard Garre and I are looking forward to planning this show and more details will follow here and the Radcliffe Motorcar Company Website, but if you want to mark you calendar, the date to remember is May 7th, 2011!

Previous Restoration Day
Next Restoration Day
Home page