I just drove a ferrari (1990 348) for the first time WOW!!!

Sounds like you're hooked. You'll never regret buying a 348. Perhaps the most loyal group of owners in the brotherhood.
Shifting is usually stiff when cold, always a little notchy, but syn lube helps a lot.
Clutch stiffness depends on the spring in the pressure plate. Some guys replace the clutch with a racing type that uses really stiff springs. Next time you buy a clutch, you can go softer if you like.
Buy it drive it break it fix it drive it like ya stole it!

 

This is NO crappy Jap-NOPI car, baby!!

It's a DRIVER's car! (if you know what I mean) and requires SKILL and CONCENTRATION to be a rewarding experience...
Firm clutch pedal and shifting is NORMAL....sloppy is not!

Go for it Tom!!!

 

I noticed the same when I test drove a '92 with dual plate clutch. I bought a '94 and less effort with single plate clutch. The dual plate is stronger, but also more $ to replace/rebuild.

I think it is something you would adapt to quickly though. The gears box fluid may need to be changed. Redline gear oils are the best and can make a huge difference. As with any Ferrari the gears will always be a little notchy especially 2nd when cold.

 

Glad to hear you were impressed Tom. 348's are fun cars. Get one as soon as you can. The best fun you will ever have with your clothes on is driving a Ferrari.

 

Tom,

For some real fun and a chance to do some serious comparison, go drive a 348 Spider - night and day, dude.

Enjoy!

 

I hate these kind of threads when I don't have my car!!

 

When are you getting it back?
I may take mine for a drive soon....... It is really sunny here at the moment. Life is good!! Play hard! Drive a 348.

 

Probably one more week or so....

 

I bet you miss your baby.....
Here is a pic of mine just to cheer you up mate.

P.S- I hope Tom does not mind.......
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Bad news - Eugenio just sold the car to me - It is mine now (devilish laughter in the background) ... j/k - dont forget to give it some stick after the maestro is finished making it perfecto.

 

Did you take that pic before or after you finished playing on the jungle gym?

 

^^LOL!

 

COOL!

Where do I pick up my check?

I know what I'll buy next.....(it's blk and in his shop)

 

Played on it before.......took the pic.......played on it afterwards.
I love my car.

 

For whatever it's worth to know, my '94 348 Spider has a delightfully light clutch.

Drove her to a BMW dealership today to buy their special convertible top sealant. Came out from their parts department $40 lighter to a crowd gathered around her. One guy was just about to strain his neck looking inside.


Anyway, life is good.

 

Exactly right there brother!!
Good to hear you are driving her again.

 

I love your car too !

 

That makes 2 of us.......
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What you describe sounds pretty normal for the 348. My clutch does not feel too heavy to me, but others tell me it is heavy. the second gear shift can be made smoother when the engine is cold with some cable adjustment and different gear oil. They are great cars IMO.
BT

 

Tom, It was nice to meet you and you wife. I hope you find the red/tan 348ts that you want. The clutch and shifting is a bit heavy and the shifting would probably be better with a quick shift gate and some lube on the cables. You get used to the clutch after a few days. Take your time and find the best car available. See you at local events soon.

 

I'll second the slick shift gate as well worth the money. also, get a new shift knob that is a little larger than standard. Looks good, and fits better.
BT

 

Hi Tom,
I have a 1991 348TS I am thinking about selling. Watch the Carolina regional threads about the Ferrari gathering "Ferraris at the Village". There should be some good pictures of her...