Bent Panhard Rod?

jacksplace · Post by **jacksplace** » Tue Apr 25, 2006 8:35 pm

This is my first Fiat and the panhard rod has a crimp and a bend in the center. I believe this rod should be straight. However, the way it's crimped looks like it could be intentional and it could be bent to allow clearance for the differential filler plug. Any comments?

spiderrey · Post by **spiderrey** » Tue Apr 25, 2006 9:01 pm

if i recall, the later cars came like that

pastaroni · Post by **pastaroni** » Wed Apr 26, 2006 11:48 pm

some alignment shops will bend the panhard rod to align the diff. im not sure yet if this is appropriate... but its not the way I do it.

jacksplace · Post by **jacksplace** » Fri Apr 28, 2006 11:57 pm

Thanks all for the input. I suspect the bend is intentional. I have a book on order that might shed some light. I have a couple books on the Fiat 124 Spider but they don't show the panhard rod clearly or the don't include in their description.

So Cal Mark · Post by **So Cal Mark** » Sat Apr 29, 2006 12:49 am

some of the rods have a flat in the middle and are bent. If you're not sure, measue the rear axle from side to side and see if it's centered

jacksplace · Post by **jacksplace** » Sat Apr 29, 2006 1:14 am

Mark:

Thanks for the input. I believe I just solved my problem with an auction on EBay! Daytona Spider Import Auto Parts has two panhard rods up for auction. The one for up to 1978 is straight. The one for 1979 and later is bent. I have a 1978 but it must be a late '78 because I'm running into things that are for the later cars but fit mine (i.e. the full dash cap). I'm learning.

So Cal Mark · Post by **So Cal Mark** » Sat Apr 29, 2006 1:17 am

as with most imports from that era, model year was really for the US and they all made running changes. VIN numbers are required for getting the right parts and Fiat was no different. Mid 78 starting morphing into 79 models with door handles, rear axles, etc