Dinos
A Dino 246GT I look after developed a small fuel leak on a return line by the carburetor, so I had to change out a fuel line that had gotten old and brittle. The carburetor side was easy to access, but the connection to the fuel tank was a little more involved, requiring removal of the inner splash shield on the right rear wheel well.
I’m always worried about rubber fuel lines as they seem to deteriorate more rapidly with the new cocktails of fuel we’re seeing. Let this post be gentle reminder to check your fuel lines. If they’re feeling hard and brittle, change them out!
Speaking of Dinos, I was sent to New Jersey to inspect a 246GTS for a client looking to buy his first “Ferrari.” I’ve been working with this client for the past several months discussing a plan for our search and trying to nail down which car, which style, and which price to pay. I meet a lot of people through this website looking for advice and guidance to buying their first Ferrari, and I can definitely speak from experience as I will always remember my first time!
As much as I am a true Vintage V-12 Ferrari fan, I have a soft spot in my heart for the Dino kicked off by some fond memories of my first drive in one. Almost 20 years ago, when I started my search for my first Ferrari, Dinos were on my list of cars to consider. Its wild to think how different this site would have been if I didn’t buy my 330 America!
After several months of searching, I found a nearly perfect 246GTS with Daytona Seats and Flared wheel arches, the “Chairs and Flares” version of the Dino. According to Dino expert Matthias Bartz, “Chairs and Flares” Dinos were not a single option ordered from the factory, but rather a combination of options. It seems, however, the “Chairs and Flares” Dino is an American buzz word when selling a Dino with all the options. Whatever the case, my customer was looking for one, and I manged to find a nice example of it.
Not only did this low mileage car drive nicely, it was nicely restored and preserved. Everything was clean and well maintained.
Although the Dino market had softened in the last several months, this car was still more money than my customer had intended on paying, but looking at the condition, and way this car performed, I felt it was worth the expense. I felt if he bought a lesser car and tried to bring it to this level of restoration, he would have exceeded his budget without a problem. A deal was struck, and this car was headed to her new home. Welcome to the club of Ferrari ownership Scott!
Save the Date!
10th Annual Tomyang.net/Radcliffe Motorcars Spring Car Show!
With our tenth year, I hope I don’t have to tell you how much fun this cars show has become.
Where: Radcliffe Motorcars Company
12340 Owings Mills Boulevard, Ste. 100 Reisterstown, MD 21136
When: May 6th, 2017
http://www.rmccar.com/vintageferrarievent.html
Contact Richard Garre about registering for the event. Space is limited to about 90 cars, so register early!
410-517-1681