45mpg and rising
 

Atleast I hope it rises......

My diesel Fiat Uno is coming on strong. Thanks to all on this forum that inspired me into working on this beast.

'Luigi' was abandoned as a write off by his owner following a bottom ball joint failure. I offered to 'clear the trash' from his driveway.
So I purchased the replacement parts and a few other bits that got damaged when it failed, and made arrangements to collect it.

I had been reading posts on the forum for a few months previous, so had an idea what to aim for. After I got the repairs done, i drove it for a few weeks while it had some 'ticket' left on it to see if there was any other bits that came to light.

OMG... this aint my life story, what am I thinking??:confused: ur not interested in the whole story, so I'll cut to the chase.

Replaced the worn out tyres (155/70x13) with part worn 155/80x13
Bought some used Uno Turbo lowed springs.
Removed rear seats and passenger seats and all other unnecessary weight, including spare tyre.
Started using some hypermiling techniques.
This so far has netted me with 45.1 MPG(US)

Last weekend replaced the engine oil with fully synthetic.
Upper grill block using duct tape. (temporary measure, so temperature can be monitored.)
This weekend I fitted the lower springs. Wot a difference in height!?! Must have lost atleast 2 inches at the rear and getting on for 3 at the front.

I've got Barnard's 'Road Vehicle Aerodynamics' book (Who is a lecturer approx 2 miles from my work place!) which I'm gradually reading through, and I may have a few questions for you guys on advising further mods.

It''s too dark now for pics following the suspension mods, but i'll post some on soon with my progress.

My cheepo cameras from ebay turned up today, so will be trying them out during the week to see if they will be suitable to replace my side mirrors.
If they are ok, I will make arrangements for temporary mirrors for MOT inpection time, or if Mr plod gets the hump.

This sucker's gonna be smooooooth and slick, while staying at low budget.

Very good. You should be able to do much better than 45.1 mpg in a diesel Fiat Uno.

Before lowering
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t...o/JD501575.jpg

After Lowering
http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t...o/JD501803.jpg

Your car looks much better lowered. I hope it improves your gas mileage! I rented a Fiat Uno in Israel in 1996, and put 1000 km on it.