Ferrari is synonymous with handmade quality and performance. In the automotive world Ferrari is a thoroughbred, born to run, with the graceful, elegant lines of Italian design. For all the performance they offer, they can be temperamental if not cared for properly.

These manifestations of mechanical and aesthetic beauty are without equal in the automotive world and the 355 F1 Berlinetta is no exception.



The Ferrari F355 Berlinetta was built by Ferrari from May 1994 to 1999. It is a mid-engined, rear wheel drive V8-powered 2-seat coupe. One major difference between the V8 of previous Ferraris is that the F355 features a 5-valve per cylinder head and that it is considerably more powerful than earlier models.

The performance aspect of the 355 is not defined by the engine alone. These machines come with aerodynamic features such as the front and rear spoilers and underbody tray to insure high speed handling.

Brakes are cooled by ducted air feeding directly to the rotors and calipers. The suspension is tuned to insure perfect balance and roll control.



















At launch, two models were available: the coupe Berlinetta, and the targa topped GTS. The Spider (convertible) version was introduced in 1995. In 1998 the Formula One style paddle gear shift semi-automatic transmission was introduced with the Ferrari 355 F1, adding $11,000 to the dealer asking price.



This example was originally purchased in July 1998 in upstate New York. I obtained the car from a friend in South Carolina in August of 2008.

The car as I first saw it was quite presentable.
 

 






While the car had accumulated only 13,497 miles, it was time for a major service due to time since the last one. That means the engine and drive-train come out. This is not a job for the general garage mechanic. Enter Automotive International.


Jarod Brown   and partner   Jean Robitaille

These terrific folks specialize in Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Ferrari restoration and service.

Guess who does my service!



My little car arrived at the appointed time and the work began.



Jarod Brown takes care of the mechanical side of the operation and in no time Sean Smith, the assigned technician was hard at work.


Ace technician Sean Smith








This is where the engine and drive-train should be.






No, they didn't really let me work on it but they do like to have the owner involved in any decision making.


The engine is out and the serious work begins.



During a major service there are things which are routine and some which fall into the "may as well do it now" category. Cam belts, for example, are a must do item.



Valve adjustments may or may not be part of the basic service but things like the water pump are on the "may as well do" list. This year the 355 uses hydraulic valve dampening so no shims are required.


Cams

Typically items which require engine removal to service get done if they reasonably due.



On the 355 the clutch is a relatively easy service and doesn't require the engine out but it is still a good time to replace the disc if there is 50% or less remaining material.



The major service went well.





There were a few items replaced which could have been left alone, but I think the car should be as near perfect as possible. Automotive International has accomplished that.

Now I have the responsibility of driving this thing like a thief to make sure the Italian tune-ups keep it in good shape.

Ciao, Pepe