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Newbie Here with 550 question

Discussion in '456/550/575' started by DKHIGHPERF, Aug 29, 2007.

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  1. DKHIGHPERF

    DKHIGHPERF Rookie

    Aug 9, 2006
    24
    Franklin, WI.
    Full Name:
    Dave
    #1 DKHIGHPERF, Aug 29, 2007
    First off, while I am a current C5 Corvette Owner, my heart lies with the Prancing Horse and I'm am thouroughly enjoying my research for all things Ferrari. Other than a few models, I really admire all Ferrari's. Not just one series. When I am ready to purchase in a few years, the cost of entry does not really concern due to my plan to never sell or if necessary, to be able to recoup most of the cost. My main concern is routine maintenance. 3x8 series seems extremely reasonable even with having to do cam belts every 4-5 years. The 348/355 concern me a little with engine out services required and TR's/512's I would avoid because of horror stories of $12-18k services.

    On to my question, what does a major service mean on a 550? Is this an "engine out" car or a simple "in car" cam belt service? Better question is does the 550 use belts or a chain? Are there any F-Cars (not incl. Maser's) that use cam chains and not belts? I would prefer to perform most maintenance myself (fluids, filters, brakes, etc.) but belts I would prefer to leave to the experts.

    I can convince my wife on higher up front costs and lower annual costs than a cheaper car (say a 348) but very high annual costs of ownership.

    Remember, I'm a newbie so please help me with my research.

    Thanks Gents

    Newbie Dave
     
  2. dsd

    dsd F1 Rookie
    Owner Silver Subscribed

    Nov 19, 2006
    4,271
    Northern Virginia
    #2 dsd, Aug 29, 2007
    The F430 and 599 use chains, the rest are belts.

    -dsd
     
  3. nzo4re

    nzo4re Karting

    Mar 13, 2003
    197
    San Jose, CA
    Full Name:
    Tom Lassen
    #3 nzo4re, Aug 29, 2007
    The cam belt service is done without removing the engine. There's a thread on here somewhere that has compiled the cost from several dealers and repaqir shops. You wife will like the ride in a 550 better than a 348/355 (">")
     
  4. gatorgreg

    gatorgreg Formula 3
    Rossa Subscribed

    Dec 13, 2004
    1,944
    NAPLES
    Full Name:
    Greg Griffin
    #4 gatorgreg, Aug 30, 2007
    My local mechanic did the major service on my car (2000 550) for $3800. The 550 has been one of the most dependable and solid Ferrari's ever made. You need to find a 550 that has been well cared for. If you do not, you end up paying for it. It's just that simple! I wouldn't care about the miles. I care about the service on these cars.
     
  5. h00kem

    h00kem Guest

    Dec 15, 2004
    734
    Texas
    #5 h00kem, Aug 30, 2007
    You are wise to consider the maintenance cost of a Ferrari up front. Regular maintenance is generally THE KEY to keeping your Ferrari running right and avoiding bigger unnecessary future costs. A Ferrari requires regular and major service be done. I don't care what you plan on it costing you, it always seems to cost more that you plan! Spending more up front on a Ferrari means finding a car with a known, proven maintenance history - they will cost you more than one without proper service and/or documentation. It does not mean paying more for a 12 cylinder than an 8 cylinder. What I seen happen is that folks who are not prepared mentally up front to maintain their cars rationalize letting the maintenance lapse and overtime it not only hurts the car performance but it also causes the car to loose value quicker than it otherwise would - a death spiral so to speak.

    You are wise to consider the maintenance cost before you buy because if you are not committed to incurring it as needed you are better off buying something else IMO.
     
  6. Alex1015

    Alex1015 Formula Junior

    Sep 1, 2005
    949
    USA
    #6 Alex1015, Aug 30, 2007
    The F355 and earlier V8 cars need to have the engine removed for belts. The 360 and F430 have access through the firewall.
     
  7. synchro

    synchro F1 Veteran

    Feb 14, 2005
    9,294
    CHNDLR
    Full Name:
    Scott
    #7 synchro, Aug 30, 2007

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