My 1996 SV Alpine is displaying 16,xxx on the odometer and I am trying
to get some sense if this might be original mileage or not. The PO drove
it for 8 or so years and put approx. 2000 miles on it during that time.
The car has been located in Maine since 1978, not sure where it was
originally purchased. The fact that it has survived 20 plus years in a
rust prone climate suggests that it was driven infrequently.
· The Speedometer had a warning label (clear background, red lettering)
with instruction about resetting the trip log (I believe, label since
removed). Original or replacement speedo?
· All other gauges and switches appear original except the Smith amp
meter. Are these typically short lived?
· Clutch pedal pad worn nearly though to metal on the top half. Lots of
back road shifting?
· Brake and gas pedal pads only slightly worn.
· Seats have original black upholstery in generally good condition only
two minor tears near seat back adjustment lever. (replacing w/ tan from
Sports & Classics)
· Driver side seat bottom foam somewhat deteriorated (being replaced)
· Seat bottom gasket stretched and torn in a couple of spots, needs
replacement (being replaced)
· Original carpet (black) very faded and in poor condition (being
replaced)
· Door panel vinyl in good condition though fiberboard backing is
slightly warped (being replaced - tan)
· Canvas top trashed/sun rotted
· Fiberglass hard top (aftermarket?) needs new plexiglass (cracked and
foggy)
· Original dash pad in good overall condition but brittle, has one inch
long crack (being replaced)
· Engine compartment was pretty filthy, engine block had a good coating
of oil and road grime (now cleaned and painted)
· All engine component appear original except for one newer Zenith carb.
- no evidence of jury rigging, etc.
· Engine number matches, engine, starts reliably, runs strong, good
throttle response, clean exhaust
· Rear axle coated with a heavy layer of oil/road grime (breather
clogged?)
· Rust free body/chassis including battery box
· Wire wheel splines worn, clunk on acceleration and braking (replaced
with Minilite bolt-ons)
Some of the above suggest that the 16,xxx miles showing on the clock
might infact be acccurate while others point to higher mileage. Is their
a way to trace the VIN and ownership prior to 1978? I’d like to learn
more about the history of this car.
Scott Donnelly
B395015371LRX
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