Questionhave a 1972 2.0 engine in the shop where the endplay shims spun out of the bearing cap for some reason. cap and block have a ridge in them now and the crank as well has about a .020" groove in it where the shim spun and machined the crank. is the crank and block saveable. one shop i went to says get a good rebuildable shortblock and throw this one away.
AnswerKeith,
It's tough for me to answer that without looking at it, but I think you may have gotten some good advice. I don't know where you live but 2 liter engines are not expensive. You might have trouble finding a short block instead of a complete engine, but either way it might be your best way out. If you can give me an idea of where you are, I can check with the various clubs and see if someone has something for sale.
If your car is in good shape, ie; limited rust and decent interior, then it it's worthwhile.
There is no way in this day, that you can afford to own one of these cars without getting involved in the subculture. There are local clubs all over the country and many parts sources around.
I'm not saying your parts are not saveable, but it might be more practical in the long run to just replace it. Let me know where you are and I'll try to find someone close that can help you.
The '72 Spider is one of the best ones made. I know you must love the car or you wouldn't be looking at fixing it. There was a guy in Nashville at the recent Alfa Romeo Owner's Club convention, who had a '72 that was showing 344,000 miles.
Good luck,
dave
