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I found an excellent mechanic in Los Angeles. Tony's imports on Figueroa Street in Highland Park. Unfortunately, the only mechanic on his staff that worked on 600 engines decided to pursue other interests and will not work on the engine!! He did finish all the brake work, however, and we were able to locate an NOS master brake cylinder, all the brake pads, hoses, etc., so the car is now running on brand new 13" tires and brand new brakes all around. I have the 12" wheels now and will probably replace the 13" once I get a bit further along (anyone need new tires?).
The car is now at a Fiat shop in Burbank, where the engine is being restored. I'm working with the mechanic to find original FIAT parts and have been pretty lucky in finding everything I need. The prices, however, are incredibly high, so keep that in mind once you start restoring your stuff. I've had to bring in some stuff from Italy, so add to the parts cost, the shipping costs and it's crazy expensive.
I finished all the DMV paperwork so, the car will be completely road-worthy in a few weeks!!!
Sadly, however, I will need to sell it due to some investments we're pursuing. That, coupled with the lack of space and other projects, will definitely prevent me from keeping the Multipla long-term, so if you're interested, drop me a note at ape@vespaape.com. If you want to see some pictures, you can check out my site at http://www.vespaape.com. Click on the FIAT link and then on the MY MULTIPLA link.
If you need some additional information for your Multipla, I've posted some pictures and other info there under the ALL ABOUT MULTIPLAS section. I'll also post some additional literature as I have time, as well as pictures of the TON of parts I have in case you need something. If anyone is interested in my Multipla, I'd sell the parts along with it as I'd have no use for it. There are engine blocks, air cleaners, suspension parts, some rubber, glass, bumpers, etc. I'm not sure if I'd separate the glass at this time but who knows. I'd like for it and other hard-to-find parts to go with the car. Anyway, good luck with your restorations and if I can help you in any way, let me know!!
By the way, I'm located near Downtown Los Angeles. The car is currently in Burbank.
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