Parts list (regular maintenance plus known issues that might creep up)

[stork]

Picture a lonely man waiting on the docks for his R4. He passes the time thinking if he collected the right parts to keep his R4 going without much support from the rest of the world.
So what parts is he thinking about?

 

[Cornish4]

The question is where do you stop compiling a list of things that might break that you need a spare to replace it with? At least you will I suppose be aiming to get a LHD car so spare parts shouldn't be too much of a problem, there are quite a few suppliers in Europe. I guess the answer is if you see a spare part grab it just in case you need it later. Just see what turns up.
One spare that is worth getting if you see one is a wind-shield, not produced anymore, but make sure it fits the vehicle, van ones are deeper than sedan ones.

 

[Lobster]

I'd agree with Brian - get whatever you can! I tend to pick up anything that I think I might ever possibly require. I recently bought my F6 a new rear bumper. Fitted it and then bought another just in case...

An awful lot is still available new and from various specialists but theres no harm in building up a decent stock of parts yourself as well.

 

[stork]

Well you are both right, but I was looking more for what is known to go wrong mechanically with the R4. Although I love the early models I am going to be smart and go with the 4TL pre 1975. That should give me that period look without the hassle of finding parts...

Parts already on my list are:
Break master cylinder
Break rebuild kit (4 of them for all 4 wheels)
Clutch master cylinder
Clutch salve cylinder
Clutch kit (for new clutch when the old one wears out)
Bulbs (all around)
A set of lenses (all around)
Carburator repair kit, plus a whole new carburetor if they are getting hard to find
Windshield wiper motor
Altenator/dynamo (which ever the car has)
4 extra wheels
I will be installing an electronic ignition so no worries there.
Maybe a radiator
Wheel bearings

So far I think this list should cover most if not all mechanical problems. Now body issues are another story...
Please add to this if you feel that there is something missing that has a tendency to fail after some time on the road...
Robert

 

[Steve Hennessey]

The clutch operating system is not hydraulic - you need a clutch cable instead!

 

[Cornish4]

Perhaps a pair of drive-shafts, fuel-pump and a steering-rack. Apart from an engine and gear-box, that just about covers the entire mechanical parts on a 4 I think.:smile:

 

[Azazello]

The clutch operating system is not hydraulic - you need a clutch cable instead!

It sounds quite cheaper...
I changed mine a year ago and I found it in a local shop for about 15 euros...
It is really any need of cumulating so much pieces? It seems to me that there are still plenty of them for sale, and the more time passes the more piece are produced again...
Maybe a gtl engine, cause they're no more provided by renault...

 

[stork]

Well, you learn something new every day! I did not know it was cable operated! Anyway, Azazello, since I live in the US parts will be expensive to ship from Europe or south America so if I can load up now then in the future all I have to o is look through my garage and find the part!
I am looking for a pre 75 so I can play with the adults at the vintage rallies!
Robert

 

[iMacThere4iAm]

Shock absorbers get mentioned a lot around here, it would probably be worth getting a set if you can.