June 1999 Message Board

Jun 1, 1999 - 02:03 - From: Doug
Title: Welcome to June
Message: As you can see, I have archived the May Message Board above. I will keep adding things as rapidly as my 80 hour work week lets me. Will, the top is held to its frame in the front and back by adhesive only! I have re-glued the rear of my top with contact cement before. Hopefully this is all you need to do. Let us know more if this is not the fix. The purpose of the "pre-cat" is to serve as catalyst when the engine is cold. It warms up rapidly--before the main cat. Removing it leaves extra space within the turbo exhaust chamber and decreases the pressure resistance of the exhaust at the turbo outlet. This can also in theory cause the turbo to 'spike' rapidly since there is less outlet resistance. With the pre-cat removed the warm emissions should be nearly the same--this explains Jade's experience of passing emissions tests. My question is this: I assume the UK spec Elan which has no main cat also has no pre-cat?? If so is the exhaust manifold slightly different?? If so can we get this part for our US Elans to eliminate the popping problem after pre-cat removal??

Jun 1, 1999 - 04:49 - From: Jason
Title: Pre Cat
Message: Doug, I doubt you will be able to eliminate the popping with a lotus or aftermarket exhaust. You'd need to have a custom one designed & built. My 90 Elan has no cat or pre-cat. Popping is a bit of an Elan feature, but it doesn't happen too often. ound it happens more (or seems to) on super unleaded fuel (98 octane)

Jun 1, 1999 - 06:18 - From: Tim Raven
Title: Exhaust Manifolds
Message: Doug, I spoke to Max at Lakeside about the manifolds and he tells me that a non-cat SE Tutbo has the space for the pre cat, just as my car is now. In other words there was never a different exhaust manifold casting. Best Regards, Tim

Jun 1, 1999 - 07:01 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Re-attaching a hood
Message: Will, my hood went exactly the same way and was then aided by a couple of theives trying to get it. I tried normal impact adhesive, but it only lasted a week or so (in the UK's luurvely climate :->). I eventually found something that *does* work, however : an adhesive/catalyst combination that's used to fix scuba diving wet-suits of all things. It's waterproof, though :-> Cost me 10UKP for a tube of glue and the catalyst. There looks to be enough glue to do 5 roofs. Cheers Ian.

Jun 1, 1999 - 07:36 - From: Will O'Brien
Title: My hood
Message: Thanks for the comments about the hood. The hood is attached to the frame via a piece of vinyl that is itself glued onto the frame. The problem is that the vinyl itself has ripped along the stitches, so it isn't obvious what I can now glue to what. My main concern is on the (near) vertical part. Ian, that glue sounds worth checking out, do you have any details about the manufacturer or name? My local dealer (Haydon Daytune) are arranging a quote from a hood repairer for me, but something tells me their price won't be cheap!

Jun 1, 1999 - 13:18 - From: charlie wallace
Title: exhaust downpipe
Message: doh, seems as soon as someone starts to talk about it, it happens more 8-) i noticed my downpipe has a crack in the weld at the top joint. coupled with a noise like a VW beetle however the noise doesn't seem to be coming from the crack, in fact it seems to be coming out of the turbo, however since that pipe feeds directly into the turbo i wonder if it could be causing it. i must admit i'm getting fed up with all that stuff thats going wrong with my car, I'm having trouble keeping up with it all. maybe time to ditch and join the seamus clan. i'm just waiting for the shifter cables to break now and i think thats been about everything on the list. on a lighter note i scorched a couple of M3`s over the weekend , the driver showed me their tits too, unfortunately it was some old fat guy...the number of M3`s up here is amazing, all with mpower, m this , m that license plates.

Jun 1, 1999 - 16:22 - From: Doug
Title: Exhaust stuff
Message: Charlie, just chill out and put the top down. I bet Seamus has already spent more on his new car than he ever did on his Elan! The downpipe is easy to replace--and you can pull out the pre-cat while you do it! My pipe broke clean and was very loud and racy, but there was no improvement in performance other than the audible one! Seems like as Jade has said, the pre-cat is the main restriction to exhaust--this is evidenced by the louder sound that you get after removing it. I will take my pre-cat out (any tips, Jade) the next time I get my Elan on a lift and see if I like it (can it be put back in, or is it a "permanent removal"?). I love the fact that my Elan can beat an M-Z3 which has tiwce the size engine and more HP--well I could turn the boost up even more . . .

Jun 1, 1999 - 19:34 - From: Jade
Title: pre-cat
Message: Doug I did not do mine personally but I spent a lot of time with the guy and he told me what it is all about. There are 5 or 6 bolt holding the pipe in place, make sure that they are lubricated very well. I was told by a Lotus shop in Detroit to expect to break at least one bolt. We did. The guy who took mine out used some sort of press once he had the the pipe off. I came out in one piece. It is a little bigger than a beer can. Other people I have talked to used a big bad screw driver and started chipping it out. Either way as long as it all gets out is what counts. You will first hear the difference and you will also see/feel the turbo spool up quicker. I will guarantee once you have it out you will not want to put it back. Charlie if you are pissed at your car then DO NOT go look at the new Audi TT. This is one car that could almost justify a trade. I'm going to let someone else loose on the depreciation first. Jade

Jun 1, 1999 - 21:50 - From: Doug
Title: Info
Message: Tim, thanks for getting the info on the UK/US pre-cat stuff! Jade, I was thinking of getting an Audi TT convertable too----BUT FOR MY WIFE!! You will feel like a slug in that car unless you rip it up and put a blower on it; but I know my wife would make it look great.

Jun 1, 1999 - 22:47 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Exhaust in Seattle
Message: I am looking for an Elan owner in the Seattle area for prototyping of a 2 1/2 inch mandrel bent, aluminized steel exhaust system using a Magnaflow muffler. Looking at the exhaust system diagram, there appears to be no flanges on the inlet and outlet of the catalytic converter, therefore, it will have to be a full system beginning with the down pipe, including the catalytic converter, muffler, and chrome tip. As such, it will be a little more expensive than our $339.00 USD cat-back systems for the Isuzu cars. We already have the precat eliminators in production. The Elan owner who volunteers their car for prototyping (consisting of removing the OEM exhaust and then fabricating a new exhaust to fit the car and hang from the original hangers with no modifications to the car) will recieve either 1/2 off the purchase of one of the first production run exhaust systems or a cash incentive if they do not wish to purchase a exhaust system. Please contact me by email if you are interested.

Jun 2, 1999 - 04:04 - From: Rupert Clifton
Title: Seamus
Message: What car does Seamus drive?

Jun 2, 1999 - 08:00 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Hood repair glue
Message: The glue that I used to repair my Elan hood is: McNett Outdoor SEAMGRIP Seam sealer and outdoor repairer. It's basically a flexible, urethane glue with a urethane based cleaner/catalyst as a separate product. Procedure I used : pull the hood off the rails a little more, clean thoroughly and remove any loose rust on the vertical posts. Then, apply the catalyst and rub like mad to get rid of any grease. Let it dry, apply a new coat of catalyst to the rails and the glue to the hood itself. Bind into place with Gaffa tape and leave for 4 hours. That's it! Mine hasn't moved since. From the instructions on the packet, the glue could certainly be used to repair seams as well.

Jun 3, 1999 - 08:46 - From: Tim Raven
Title: Rave.....on
Message: Doug, The UK press has run stories about the Audi TT suffering with snap oversteer, and this is causing the factory some worries. Trouble is this is the self same press that didn't tell the truth about the Elise's terrible snap oversteer. They don't realise that they totally lose their credibility when they are found to be deliberatly economical with the truth. Tim.

Jun 3, 1999 - 10:34 - From: Will
Title: Good news on the hood!
Message: Just to update you on my hood. I've now stuck it back to the frame using Neopreme adhesive, and despite the current nasty weather in Cambridge it's still stuck. Considering the glue cost me £2, even if I need to re-do it every week it'll be more cost effective than the Lotus suggested route of a new hood! Thanks to Ian for the tip!

Jun 3, 1999 - 13:42 - From: charlie wallace
Title: lotus 2 ferrari conversion
Message: if i do change my car i'll probably go ferrari, but since i'll have to do all the repairs to sell it, i'll probably feel better about keeping it, so long as nothing else goes wrong for a while 8-) I'm waiting for my stock to mature then 355F1 here i come.

Jun 3, 1999 - 15:24 - From: Doug
Title: I'm sure there's a Ferrari message board for you
Message: Charlie, I think "ferrari" in Italian means "money pit." You WILL need all your stock to buy and maintain your car. And when a problem occurs you won't just ask us and fix it with ease; you will pay to flatbed the car to a money-grubbing dealer where bruno and his buddies will fix and then drive your car around at redline before returning it. Be sure you have a "second" car too. Ask Seamus how much he has spent on his 348 since getting it! BTW you must not have seen the new 360 Modena coming out or you would be wanting it instead.

Jun 3, 1999 - 20:18 - From: Michael
Title: Ferrari
Message: A Ferrari is like a woman that you know is really bad for you...but you still really want her anyway! Way to expensive to keep, very flashy, and high maintenance. I don't know about you Doug, but I give my Elan up for a 328 GTS any day; even though I know I'd regret it every day there after. That's whats great about exotic cars: they are totally illogical to own.

Jun 4, 1999 - 00:09 - From: Doug
Title: Enough already
Message: You guys are making me sick!! 328 Michael??--My Elan could laugh at a 328--at least aim high for the 550 or 355!! Enough of that talk now or I'll have to start removing this wasteful banter from the board!! Sorry for you UK guys, but Lotus IS a very exotic car--and I've seen MORE beautiful women in England than I ever did in Italy too if you get the parallelism!

Jun 4, 1999 - 03:51 - From: Andy H
Title: Hi!
Message: HI Just found your site. Nice! I get my Elan back today with a new S2 hood! I've been without her for a couple of months so cant wait! As for being exotic, I wouldnt class her as exotic, but head turning potential is excellent! how many Z3 and SLK owners gawp as i drive past them? all of them! glad to see you all enjoy your m100's as much as i do! cheers Andy(London)

Jun 4, 1999 - 04:49 - From: Roo
Title: 550 vs Elan
Message: Ferrari- 550 Maranello to be exact. I've been a mad keen Elan enthusiast for years, for its price there is no competition. However, I've in a couple of Elans. The experience was of course brilliant and I year to be able to afford one. BUT, a friend of my fathers recently bought a 1998 550 Maranello and he took me for a spin - I was speechless, the power handling, looks etc are out of this world. I know the Elan is the best handling FWD car in the world but you cannot really compare it with a 550 Maranello. I regret to say it on these holy pages but even I, a dedicated Elan fan would choose a 550 over an SE Turbo - if it were for free of course. Doug - would you really keep your Elan if it could be swapped for a free 550???? Rupert One of the biggest Elan fans in Yorkshire!!

Jun 4, 1999 - 05:08 - From: Andy H
Title: 550 VS Elan ???
Message: Call me old fashioned, but isnt comparing a call that costs 15K to one that costs 100K+ a bit daft? Take out a Esprit Sport 300!! Yummy!! and only 25Kish too

Jun 4, 1999 - 10:06 - From: Rupert
Title:
Message: I'd also love to own a Sport 300 but the open air attracts more and so a TVR Griffith 500 would have to suffice - not a patch on an Esprit's handling though. 550 Maranellos are dream cars for me. An Elan will hopefully soon be a reality after 6 years of waiting.

Jun 4, 1999 - 10:10 - From: Rupert
Title:
Message: Andy, how much was your hood repair? And have you still got the hard top pictured with your car? Is it any good?

Jun 4, 1999 - 13:22 - From: charlie wallace
Title: rant and complain and ferrari
Message: TVR been there, done that, griff and chimera cramped, terrible handling in the wet (especially in manchester) even more flakey hand built no two the same, never get a TVR built on a friday. I went out in a 355 spider a few days ago, ouch! my god does that thing handle well. the esprit v8 is faster and probably handles better, but the esprit is 80k the 355 is 150k 8-) the 550 is ok, but its the *bmw* of ferraris, built and designed more for comfortabilty and use than the other models. its what all the m3 owners really want but can't afford ;-) i like the looks of the 550 and the performance is gobsmackingly good but its not the drop dead looks of the 355 IMHO. doug, luckily my ferrari/lotus dealer shop is within walking/pushing distance of my house 8-) though i'm not sure i'd want to push a 550 anywhere.. ps do you still want me to do those videos for you ? i'll be down in Los angeles from the 12-16 june. i suppose once i get the list of problems fixed with my elan i'll be happy with it again, but northern california sucks and its raining, cold and miserable up here again.. (not that i'd imagine i'll get much sympathy from those in yorkshire)

Jun 4, 1999 - 14:42 - From: Doug
Title: Go Figure
Message: Let's see, for the $500,000 would I rather have a 550 OR (an Elan in every color, an airplane or two, a house, and money left over to have plenty of fun)?? I'll get back to you when I figure it out.

Jun 4, 1999 - 17:36 - From: Steve P
Title: Lotus V Ferrari
Message: Hey, lets not forget the Esprit V8. You accelerate in one of these babies and the blood drains from your eye balls! Ferrari were way behind Lotus for many many years when it came to handling. Even now in group tests the Esprit V8 out paces Ferrari's overpriced exotica. Can you imagine Ferrari trying to engineer a FWD sportscar like the Elan 10 years ago! It would have needed a service before the first corner, and rusted before the fall. Much as I appreciate the lines of an F355, a pert little Elan gives me pleasure I can afford in the real World...... now where did I put those keys?!

Jun 5, 1999 - 15:54 - From: Doug
Title: Fuel Drip
Message: Okay, so I'm coming home from overnight work this morning thinking, "I have a few hours to kill, should I wash Her or should I tackle the dreaded fuel drip problem?" I've noticed my fuel drip getting worse lately so I decided to go for it. To access the fuel system you have to remove the floor of the convertable stowage compartment as well as the left side. I found 8 years of dust and crud in there. OF NOTE, I found the label on the top's hinge that says "Tickford" on mine with the serial number; and I saw the big "GM" part number stamp on the stowage lid latches behind each seat--I can only think these are from the corvette as no other GM car had a convertable with a stowage lid back then!! I couldn't see any obvious sources for the leak so I took her to fill up the tank, hoping to spot the leak! Well she leaked but it is NOT from anywhere I can see, even with full access in the back. It drips down between the left sidewall and the left end of the fuel tank as I can see with my head on the floor looking under the car. After thinking about it and looking in the service notes, I can only think that the source is from the junction of the filler hose and tank or maybe from a crack in the tank in that area. It is a day's work, WITH a car lift, to remove the tank, so I will try to investigate that coupling and get back with more info.

Jun 6, 1999 - 05:07 - From: Jeff
Title: Problems and thoughts
Message: Bravo Doug! That fuel drip thing has been bugging me for a while. I hope you figure it out and then let us know. I just had the passenger window motor mechanism fail . . . Hmmmm. Oh well, at least I got the driver side one replaced when I bought my Elan. But not to be outdone, the driver door dropped the speaker into the space behind the speaker grill. Joy! Now I got to take both doors apart. Well, I'm doing it tommorow; I'll let everyone how it goes. I figure while I'm there I might as well do a speaker upgrade, this is about the only upside to the problem. Hey with all the problems we have it might not be a bad idea to have an owner's "clinic" - this is just a thought. Maybe some of the repairs wouldn't be so "daunting" if we all had company and some beer . . . One last thing - As much as I love the Ferrari I would probably opt for the NSX instead. I don't think I'd be able to afford the tune-up or a solitary tire for the Ferrari. I think I'm with Charlie, I'll be a lot happier with my crimson mistress when she quits having problems and lets me enjoy her to her full potential. And in closing - anyone interested in seeing my friend Ed B. keep his 9 sec 1/4 mile title next weekend at pomona? I am hoping to be the "sore thumb" sticking out in a sea of japanese and german copy cats . . . Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Keep up the faith Doug and thanks for your "well placed" obsession with the Elan.

Jun 6, 1999 - 11:52 - From: Paul
Title: petrol tank removal
Message: Hi doug glad to hear someone else is about to tackle the petrol leak problem i have been thinking about doing it for a while. Like you say it must be coming from the joint between the filler neck and tank or a crack in the tank its selfaround that area i favour the crack possibility because i have tried many types of sealant around the joint but to no avail. I was about to start the job the other day but after looking at the service notes it put me off a bit. it wasn't so much the removing of the floor under the hood stowage as mine is already taken out and has been for a while but the fact that the wishbone has to be removed to allow the tank to come out, the bit that worried me is that the rear camber is adjusted from one of those bolts and i was affraid of putting it back in the wrong position it also mentioned about only tightening the bolts when the car is on the ground i assume that if the car is on ramps that it is sufficient.Perhaps you could explain a bit more about the reassembly of the wishbone ,by the way doug its a good time to change the fuel filter why the roof stowage floor is out and i would also take the roof stowage lid off as it is only four bolts and make access to the filler neck a lot easier good luck and i await with interest as to how you get on.

Jun 6, 1999 - 13:16 - From: Doug
Title: Reportable Hazard
Message: I was thinking that this fuel leak seems to be a very common problem on our car. I will look into reporting it to the NHTSA or NTSB or whoever because it IS a significant design flaw/fire hazard. If our car were from a larger manufacturer I bet they would recall and fix the problem!! Perhaps we can make Lotus remember that they made this car by requiring them to fix the leaks for us!! Anyone have thoughts on this??

Jun 7, 1999 - 13:49 - From: Jeff
Title: Gas Tank Recall
Message: That would probably be the best thing to follow up on. Sounds like we'd have a line of people to have this problem fixed. I guess we could start with Lotus of North America and see if we can get anywhere with it. Any volunteers on this issue?

Jun 7, 1999 - 18:00 - From: charlie wallace
Title: yay and nay !
Message: well i bought some rhino ramps to get under the car this weekend to see about this blasted noise, i noticed before that the exhaust pipe was fractured at the joint as expected, thers no way i could remove those nuts as doug said. so i spent $2.50 and got some exhaust sealer and smeared it on left it overnight and its rock hard and sealed. however as i had expected the noise was still there, I was sure it was coming off the turbo so i started to remove the heatshield man is that thing hard to get off. anyway i started the engine up to listen for more evidence of where the noise was coming from, and i just happened to put my fingers down the right hand side of the turbo, just between the two parts and i could feel the air pressure at the same resonance as the noise, aha i thought, so i noticed a hole, hmm odd i though perhaps a saftey measure, if the gasket fails etc. but after looking at the other bolts i noticed that the hole was in a position for a bolt, so i dug out a couple of bolts, i think its an M8, checked for a thread, yup, threaded it a few mm and started it up, no noise !! hurrah !! so i went off the home depot to get an assortment of M8 hex bolts, none! only imperial bolts and metric nuts , oh well so i got a 5/16" of about 20mm and used that, I could not get one of the other bolts out they are solid, so I have no idea what length it ought to be, and of course the less than useless lotus parts manual does not list anything about it, strange, even the CAS is missing from it! so now its quiet again for the price of a 5/16ths bolt. sso check yours see if they're nice and tight, if theyre not pop one out a measure it for me and let us know how long it is!! then i proceeded to fill up the brake fluid resovoir with power steering fluid 8-) ha ha. a couple of hours later when i noticed what i'd done i sucked it all out with a garden hose 8-) i'm about to get it powerflushed thinks to seamus for the tip. i did eventually manage to put the power steering fluid in the correct tank and what a difference a correct level of fluid gives, the steering has a much tighter feel.. oh well all i have to do now is get the power window fixed,, the oil sump cover replaced, the gelcoat on the bumper fixed, the bent front wheel, the correct head unit for the momo steering wheel and hopefully the horn reconnected, the gearshift cables replaced before they break and that should be it 8-) i spent an hour on sunday with a 355 .... damn...

Jun 7, 1999 - 18:48 - From: Doug
Title: Go Charlie
Message: Charlie, would you like some cheese with your whine?? Charlie, I hope you put the right power steering fluid in too--do you know our car uses ATF for the power steering and NOT the usual power steering fluid?? Maybe you can put the garden hose in the power steering reservoir too!! Is that the same hose that has all the dirt in it??

Jun 8, 1999 - 04:55 - From: Rupert
Title: Exhaust- ion
Message: Is it worth travelling round the country to find an Elan in the private ads or can dealers search for a car nationwide and bring it up to their showroom so you don't have to leg it round the country (even our small one - UK)!

Jun 8, 1999 - 05:12 - From: Andy
Title: Good place to start...
Message: Rupert, What part of the UK do you live? and what is your budget? One of my friends owns the best independant lotus specialist in the UK! he has loads of contacts and always comes up with the goods whether its for cars, parts repairs etc. His name is Norman, NTC cars (maker of the world famous Elan Hardtop!!) 01322 229111. Say you got his number from me on the net! he's very helpful!

Jun 8, 1999 - 10:45 - From: Jason
Title: Finding an Elan & pointers
Message: Rupert, If you're getting one follow a few pointers: Don't buy the first one you test - or at least try a couple more before you take it. Its amazing how different a bad one can be/ feel It must have FSH. Speak to the previous owners. Low mileage good for resale, but cars can have problems. Check the roof & seals - very costly. If over 60k miles,check wether cam belt has been changed. A good sign is to find one thats had the waxoyl (can't remember lotus's funny name for it) treatment every two years. Also, try and find on that got the galvanised suspension arms - think its mid 90 on Most official dealers are on the net, with their stock lists. Try these as a good starting point. Some will bring the car to you from their showroom if you're genuinely interested. Personally, I'd buy from a dealer - just for the warranty / aftersales as I had quite a bit of work done to mine within a month of purchase.

Jun 8, 1999 - 11:55 - From: Doug
Title: Mission Underway
Message: CALLING ALL ELAN OWNERS!! I have now reported my fuel leak problem to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)!! I consider it to be a manufacturing defect that poses serious fire risk! I encourage all US owners with this problem to report it as well. You may fill out an online questionaire at: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/ivoq/default.htm --This is a costly problem to fix and we should NOT have to pay for it!! What will happen if we all report it?? The US will make Lotus fix the problem at NO COST TO THE OWNER!! This will make us happy as it will fix the serious problem--it will make the dealers happy as they will get paid from Lotus to fix our cars and they will meet new owners and get more business this way--this will also make Lotus fix something they should have fixed previously. As a case in point I had a 10 year old Honda car about 8 years ago and was sent a recall notice in the mail for free dealer repair of the leaky fuel filler neck (interesting similarity!). I am trying to contact Lotus USA but no one is ever there to take my call. I will keep you all informed. Please report the problem if you have it!!!

Jun 8, 1999 - 11:57 - From: Doug
Title: Oh yeah
Message: You will need your VIN number for the questionnaire. You can alternatively make a phone report if you'd rather!

Jun 8, 1999 - 19:46 - From: charlie wallace
Title: cheesy wine
Message: arrggh , you're kidding right doug 8-) please! nope i put ordinary power steering fluid in. oh well i'll just go kill myself now 8-) the garden hose was clean i can assure you. ps down in Los angeles from saturday to wednesday, might see you there for the cheese, or at least cheesecake.

Jun 9, 1999 - 02:20 - From: Doug
Title: Think of this as a Coupon
Message: Well, I took her in for a new timing belt today! I picked a timing belt up at the Isuzu dealer on the way too, thanks to Yves for the part number. FYI the Isuzu part number is 8-94429-486-0. It was $32 plus tax--cheaper than the same thing for 2 to 3 times the amount, depending on which Lotus place you call!! You can check "www.partsvoice.com" to see which Isuzu dealer near you has the belt waiting for you.

Jun 9, 1999 - 06:05 - From: Rupert
Title:
Message: Nice new picture Doug. Budget ~ £14000. Region West Yorkshire. Is JCT 600 any good?

Jun 9, 1999 - 12:46 - From: Jeff
Title: Door Panels
Message: Hey, hey, hey . . . Got the door panels off last night and figured out my problems. Much thanks goes to Charlie for all of his help - it was invaluable. Today, I'm going to get sturdier replacement screws, nuts, pins and the like to make sure the things don't "fall off" again . . . Here's a quick tip on those "red clips" though. If you use a jewler's flat tipped screwdriver and insert it in between the plastic and the door frame and then gently turn the screwdriver towards you, the plastic (if it isn't brittle), pops off without a problem. I've taken pictures this time (thank you Doug) and will send them to Doug so that he can post it. I don't think I will be taking the car to Mobile fantasy but I will document my adventures with the upgrades and show everyone how to do a good "middle of the line" stereo upgrade. Current plans are some efficient MB Quartz replacements in the doors and some "Punch" woofers in the back with a "passive cap" all run off the head unit. I've done this before in the MR-2 and it works great! (mostly because of the small cabin size). I'm still looking for a suitable location for the changer though . . . Also, just for the heck of it I'm probably going to mount a passive fuba/M3 style antennae at the rear of the car ala' the Elise. I'll take pictures of that too. Congrats on the belt replacement Doug, I looked at mine and I'm happy to report that all my belts look brand new and to my suprise they are the Isuzu equivalents . . . Atleast I don't have to worry about that for a while. Well, that's all for now . . .

Jun 10, 1999 - 13:04 - From: Ian H
Title: Red Door Clips
Message: If anyone is having problems with the red clips and is miles from the closest Lotus Dealer then you could try your local Scrap dealer and get the replacement from a Vauxhall Carlton or Cavalier which has the same plastic door locks. I managed to pick up a couple of them and a new clip for the glove box which is identicle down to the GM part number for £2. I also had a leaky brake Fluid filer cap and was losing a liitle fluid through there, i had just replaced all of the brake fluid with some synthetic brake fluid so luckly i had no damage to the paintwork. I managed to get a replacement one off a Vauxhall Corsa from the scrap dealer aswell. Rupert i am glad you like the new Picture that Doug has placed on the front page. I have only had her a couple of months but i am already hooked. I spent many months looking for my Elan - i found the Autotrader.co.uk and exchangeandmart.co.uk sites very useful and it was from the latter i managed to find the one in the picture, which as far as i am concerned was an absolute bargain. Good Luck.

Jun 11, 1999 - 06:30 - From: Davy Neill
Title: Rear Light Cluster
Message: One of my rear lens clusters is no more , the price of a new one is (better sit down) over 200 Pounds !!!!!!!! Anyone got any bright ideas how not to pay this amount of money e.g. who makes them......other sources...etc. Any and all suggestions appreciated. (question is UK based)

Jun 11, 1999 - 07:07 - From: Jason
Title: Rear lights
Message: Davy, the rear light cluster is sourced from the Renault Alpine / A610 - don't know it it was shared with anything else. As this is rarer than the Elan, you will have problems finding it at a scrap dealer, but you could try renault parts. I'd be interested in the part number if it fits!

Jun 11, 1999 - 07:12 - From: JJ
Title: Windstopper
Message: Now before everyone slates me I now open top roadsters are all about wind in the hair, and for general driving around I do enjoy it, but for motorway/freeway cruising it can be a little too much. I was therefore wondering if anyone had found a windstopper/blocker that will fit our Elans (ala Mercedes SL, Z3, MGF) (Black mesh screen positioned behind seats)? I may have found one company in the US, Serious Auto Accessories (http://www.SeriousAuto.com), they make one for the Miata/MX5 but say they've also supplied a couple to Lotus/Kia Elan owners and as they weren't returned they presume they fit OK. Just wondered whether anyone had any experience of these (or any alternatives)?

Jun 11, 1999 - 11:31 - From: Will
Title: Wind blockers
Message: I agree about the windblocker. I haven't found one either, and looking at my friend's MX5 windblocker, I think it would require some mods to fit into an Elan. If anybody has actually done that I'd certainly be keen to hear about it too...

Jun 11, 1999 - 15:41 - From: charlie wallace
Title: big project 8-)
Message: i just got myself a nice HP scanner, so i thought wouldn`t it be nice to convert parts manual to web browseable content, would people be interested, of course i'd have to add a section that said you can only read this if you have the parts manual already for legal reasons. I`d imagine each page to be around 1-2mb for download. We could fix all the errors too.

Jun 11, 1999 - 16:51 - From: Doug
Title: Charlie and Fuel Leaks
Message: Charlie, go for it--what manual do you mean, service or parts?? Certainly there are specific parts that are more pertinent than others. By the way, who ever has the fuel leak problem please report it because the DOT/NHTSA just CALLED ME to look into the problem!!

Jun 12, 1999 - 05:27 - From: Jeff
Title: Various topics
Message: Two quick comments - Scanning the manual would be a great benefit to everyone!!! I'm all for it and if I can help - let me know. Actually, if you scan each page at about 72dpi and then store as jpg with the BoxTop filter for Photoshop you can get file size down to about 16-38k. I've got the filter, so if you want me to "shrink" them I'd be more than willing. Also, I just filled out online questionare and informed them of the fuel leak problem on my car - I'm glad to hear they are responding so quickly! Maybe we can all get this problem addresed soon. Well, I stopped by Bauer and had them look at my passenger window assembly. Their diagnosis is I need to get a new regulator (to the tune of $267). Has anybody repaired this by going any other route??? Are there Impulse or Storm alternatives??? I wanted to get some feedback before I commit to the dealer fix. BTW I checked out your Elan Doug. Nice car . . . Did you get a chance to check out the Elise?? Looks like I have a new goal for 2001. I'll have some pictures developed for the door panel removal, speaker install and re-assembly ready this weekend. Maybe I'll include my "mug" and present a face to go along with the e-mails . . . Anyway - gotta get some sleep. As always, thanks in advance for the help.

Jun 13, 1999 - 03:55 - From: Jeff
Title: Windscreen and Ignition Cables
Message: I spoke with the rep at Windstop and he told me that their windscreen fits the Elan without any modification . . . I'm ordering one this week. I'll let everyone know how it goes and take some pictures for those who are curious about the fit and finish. If you have any other questions about the product you can contact Larry Cohen. And now for a completely different topic. I received my Magnecor "Race Wires" this past week. I spent some time looking for the spark plugs and eventually had to contact NGK directly - they are based in Irvine. I finally secured everything I needed to give my car the ignition "tune-up". Let's just say it wasn't fun. It was difficult getting the stock cables off of the coil. There is not a lot of clearance under the coolant reservoir. Anyway, after much contortion and pulling I managed to get the old wires off and replace them. I must say that in terms of "perceivable" performance gains - this upgrade does measure up. The Magnecor part number is: 45286. The wires are the 8.5mm size. The only thing I would recommend you get along with the cables are two cable "clips" that will accomodate the new larger cables. The clips can be found at any Kragen, Chief or Pep Boys. Well, that's all for now . . . Doug and I are thinking about having a get together soon - maybe then I'll be able to put some faces to some names.

Jun 13, 1999 - 11:43 - From: Doug
Title: Plugs
Message: FYI, for those of you in SoCal, the PepBoys part number for the NGK BKR6E plugs is #6962. Jeff, are you enticing me with claims of performance gains??? If so I may have to give some money to Magnecor! BTW, I think the coolant reservoir is pretty easy to remove for better access to the coil area. Jeff, how about a write-up about the wires??!!

Jun 14, 1999 - 06:05 - From: Paul
Title: fuel drip!
Message: Hi doug it sounds as though you are getting somewhere with the fuel leak problem over there in the U.S but i dont know where to start over here in the U.K. have you or any one else got any suggestions.By the way i spoke to NTC cars this morning about their hardtop they now have an e-mail address which is lotus@ntccars.freeserve.co.uk

Jun 14, 1999 - 17:36 - From: Jeff
Title: Ignition Tune-Up's Secret HP
Message: There is a lot to be said about making sure that your plugs and cables are in good condition. This is one of the most over looked areas by most people that are starting to "modify" their cars. If you're curious about hp gains, I will say this; it is possible to gain true "flywheel" hp if you upgrade to the proper plug/cable combination. This is especially true (Doug) when you're running more boost and starting to push more fuel through your car. A good example of this is was Project MR-2(Compact Sports Car Mag). This was one of the first things they did before tweaking the fuel/air mixture. According to the dyno tests they were able to increase flywheel hp by 16. Of course, the caveat is that the larger the engine/turbo, and the further you push the electronics that govern the fuel/air mixture for the car, the more hp you might be able to gain. So - if anyone is wondering whether this is a worthwhile upgrade . . . I would say, yes! Its definitely worth the paltry $108 (plus s/h)that Magnecor wants for their wire set. Plus, if you want to read a little about all the theory Magnecor has some very good documentation on the whole process on their site.

Jun 14, 1999 - 19:48 - From: Doug
Title: Fuel Leak UK Contact
Message: Paul, your contact at Lotus for the fuel leak problem is Mike Pomfret!! His e-mail address is: MPomfret@lotuscars.co.uk Please contact him and maybe we can all help to fix this problem!!

Jun 15, 1999 - 04:54 - From: Tim Raven
Title: Period Elan Competitor
Message: My wifes S" is now three years old and had to go through its first Ministry of Transport Test a couple of weeks ago. ( It passed !) The guy at the testing station is a car enthusiast, and always loved the M100, but couldn't afford one, so he runs the M100's only real period competitor, a Reliant Scimitar 1800 Ti. Which was in its time a complete flop, primarilly becauce it had a hidious Michilotti styled body, but underneath it is quite an interseting brew. A Nissan 1800cc Turbo engine and gearbox, a robust galvanised backbone chassis with very solid side impact outriggers, a Ford Sierra Differential with semi trailing arm rear suspension. All in a package of similar dimention to an origianal rear drive Elan, and with a total all up weight of 830 Kg. The guy at the MOT station offered to let me try the car, so last Saturday I left him with my 911RS ( I never admitted to owning one of these publically before, but thats what I bought with the money from the evil Elise !) and duly went of in his Scimitar. Well what a fabulous little car, ( apart from the styling and finish ), it really drives very well, very accurate steering, NO scuttle shake, loverly "sniky" gearshift. Very torquey engine with a very light car giving possibly better than standard M100 performance. Weak brakes, good driving position. But the best bit is the value in the UK, £ 3000 buys you a goodie,brand new replacement fully dressed engine, gearbox and ECU from a specialist is £ 970 , unbelievable ! When I got back to the owner we put the car on the ramp, and the thing was in perfect condition, why couldn't Lotus have galvanised our chassis ? My wifes car, despite going back to the Surrey main dealer for rust protection is already showing signs of corrosion at the rear. Best Regards to all , Tim.

Jun 15, 1999 - 07:44 - From: Andy Hoath
Title: Return of the fuel smell?
Message: Anyone experienced a 'whiff' of petrol each time you accelerate hard in your M100? The car has had the ECU changed and a bigger intercooler fitted? its seems to be coming from the front of the car. I had this prior to the new intercooler and have had a new seal put on the petrol tank. idea's anyone please? (performance is now awesome however!!)

Jun 15, 1999 - 08:49 - From: Jason
Title: Fuel Smell
Message: Andy, The fuel smell is probably a blocked vent pipe on the fuel system. This forces petrol smelling air back into the cabin. I had mine cleared a the dealers during a service (1 minute job apparently) and the smell has never returned.

Jun 15, 1999 - 11:59 - From: Doug
Title: ** Fuel Leak UPDATE**
Message: I have now spoken with a representative of The US Department of Transportation and they have received 5 other complaints about the Elan since mine!!! They are very interested and are looking into the problem. Lotus is likewise interested and, given my car is at a dealer now, is looking into the problem. If you have the problem you should also notify Duwayne Shumate at Lotus USA at 1-800-24-LOTUS. I am pleased with their responsiveness and will keep you all informed. For those of you in the UK, yes the factory, including the CEO of Lotus, does know about the problem now and I recommend you contact them about it if you need to.

Jun 17, 1999 - 01:15 - From: DonM
Title: Chipping the M100
Message: Does anyone know of a chip upgrade for the M100 other than the one from Superchips?

Jun 17, 1999 - 09:44 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Chips
Message: I would caution anyone to steer clear of any Superchips products. We've had some long discussions about this company on the Isu-Mods mailing list and how their products work with the Isuzu and Isuzu engined Lotus Elan. One Elan owner bought the upgrade from Superchips in the UK and was extremely disappointed with the results. He is a computer programmer and later downloaded the program from the ECU and compared it to the OEM program. His commentary seemed to indicate that a two year old could have done a better job and that they had missed modifying a number of primary parameters. I've looked all morning for that email and can't find it or I would have just posted it here. My own experience with their product when installed on Isuzu cars is that the engine runs worse, emits heavy black smoke, won't idle, and won't run above 3,000 RPM. They refuse to honor their own warranty and you will be in for a long fight when you want to get your money back. The US performance magazines won't do comparison tests on these type products (advertisers don't renew their contracts when their product performs poorly in your testing story), but the UK and Australian magazines do. Superchips consistently performs at the bottom of any group being tested, frequently making resulting in less power than the OEM chip or program. If you are looking for a company that consistently tests at the top, call Brodie Britain Racing in the UK. BBR have a spotless reputation and their product always tests at the top. In the US, you might try Jones Electronc Technologies. JET does all the Isuzu cars and show very good results. They don't show the Elan in their catalog, but would have a better chance at better results than anyone else I can think of. I would suggest G-Force too, but they refuse to touch anything that is AC Delco (as are all of the FWD Isuzu cars) or not from Japan.

Jun 18, 1999 - 14:24 - From: Steve P
Title: Reliant 1800Ti
Message: Tim, you're right about the 1800Ti, If you can stand the daft styling and horrendous cabin noise, its got to be one of the quickest cars of its time. Once the turbo kicks in it will leave even a 911 standing. I used to borrow my bosses on urgent company business ;-) Sorry Doug, I know, M100 business only....I'm sure that the M100 main chassis is galvanised?!! On another matter...I've recently tried "Wonder Wheels" alloy wheel cleaner on my Mazda and the results are nothing short of amazing. Thought I'd never remove the oxidation and brake dust grunge, but they now look like new!! Maybe worth a try if your wheels need some TLC.

Jun 18, 1999 - 15:26 - From: charlie wallace
Title: not so superchips
Message: not a hundred % sure, but i believe i have the superchips in mine, it came from florida IIRC, it might not be them. BBR are an excellent bunch, i used them when i was in the UK for miata/mx5 stuff. the chip was fitted before i got the car and i have a leaflet on it. i`d really like to get a copy of the original elan chip and compare it too. I`d also like to know what they do when its sent to them, is it just that the EPROM/PROM/ROM is soldered or is that each has to be done indivdually ?. since they only have the ECU they can't customize it to the car, and i'm only aware of a couple of versions of the ECU. I've never really noticed any problems such as bill said, but then i'm not sure i have it, i've also read a number of times in UK mags about superchips sucking. On a side note has anyone ever noticed that the later elans have a slightly different suspension setup and the US a longer nose. I'll start scanning this weekend, it'll take me a while 8-) (read months) i'll probably end up doing them as BW vector drawings.

Jun 18, 1999 - 15:35 - From: charlie wallace
Title: confused , i am
Message: i'm always on the lookout for a yellow elan, since i got stiffed on the first one 8-) so i read for dannys posting as mentioned b4, i noticed he's asking 27.5k *or more* ? I'm just interested is there anyone around here how would offer more than the asking price 8-)? Because i have a very nice bridge for sale. Also on a more serious note , i think we should reverse engineer all the chips before the pass that new law making it illegal (at least in the US) to reverse engineer. Obviously its a lot of work removing the ECU and copying and or sending your chip, perhaps next time we meet i'll bring a portable eprom programmer and a handful of chips, and if someone else can get hold of the manual boost controller we can spend some time chipping cars.. and finding out which is the best...

Jun 18, 1999 - 15:43 - From: Bill Luton
Title: "chip" programming
Message: The word "chip" is really a misnomer when you are talking about computer upgrades on cars built after 1990. The older cars have actual PROM chips which are either plugged into or soldered onto the circuit board. The US cars were typically plug in style and the Japanese cars were solder on. This is why you could buy a chip for a US car but you had to ship the whole ECU from a Japanese car in to be upgraded, because they had to desolder the original chip and then solder on a dip header to plug the new chip into the board. On cars built after 1990, especially those with AC Delco computer systems, there is no "chip". These computers have internal data storage circuits like little hard drives. The program to control the car is literally loaded on to the computer after the computer is installed into the vehicle. These computers also have "learning circuits" which allows the computer to slightly modify the programming internally based on the data it receives from the sensors. This allows the computer to compensate for measurements which are out of specification and also to change the engine operation based on the driving style of the driver. This information is stored on the computer until the codes are run and the computer is reset. This is one of the ways that a computer upgrade company can perform a computer upgrade on your ECU/computer without having the car in their shop and running it on a dyno while manually modifying the program parameters. The downloaded information from the computer indicates where the program is deficient and what can be done to boost the performance of the vehicle. This is also the reason that the computer program companies always flatly state that the computer you send in to be upgraded must be from the car you are installing it on. The stored information from a salvaged car will not give them any idea of how to enhance the program parameters of your own vehicle.

Jun 18, 1999 - 20:42 - From: Sam
Title: used prices
Message: What is the cheapest price a person could purchase a running-condition elan for, regardless of miles or anything?

Jun 19, 1999 - 15:28 - From: Doug
Title: **New Fuel Tank**
Message: So I had the dealer look at my fuel leak and they agreed that it was from the junction of the fuel neck and the tank. Problem is that without disassembling the tank (3 hours) this cannot be proved!! Lotus sympathized with me and agreed to pick up the tab ($500)--Thank you Lotus!!!! I saw the old tank which is going back to Georgia HQ and YES there is a crack along the junction of the neck of the tank--this appears like a classic "stress/fatigue crack" to my observation! I will keep in touch with the NHTSA and Lotus USA about our leak problems and encourage anyone else with a leak problem to tell Lotus USA about it NOW as I described above previously. Everything seems OK now and the test will be tomorrow when I fill up the new tank . . .

Jun 19, 1999 - 15:32 - From: Doug
Title: Timing Belt / Drive Belts
Message: Well I had the timing belt and other 2 drive belts replaced. NO I did not get that "warm, fuzzy feeling" after replacing the timing belt--it was more of a "hole in the wallet" sensation!! I kept the old belts and will check auto stores to find the right "equivalent belts" to have the info on the other drive belts for you all in the future. I maybe should have got them from Isuzu too with the timing belt. Bill, do you have the part numbers for these belts too??

Jun 19, 1999 - 16:18 - From: charlie wallace
Title: fish n chips
Message: thanks for info bill. i wonder though does anyone know the actual type of retention device in there ? is it a flash rom, eeprom or plain old novram ? i feel a trip to the passenger side of the car with a screwdriver coming along. still seeing what bill says, its doubtful that copying one cars config to another will be useful. though it does seem to disagree with previous statements saying that most chippers just removed the boost limiter, which would be the same on all like revisions i`d imagine, anyway i'm all ears for more info. i wonder if GM sell circuit diagrams for the ECU ps. i started scanning those pages in, man is it slow progress 8-)

Jun 19, 1999 - 18:06 - From: Doug
Title: ECU
Message: Charlie, the ECU is in the driver's footwell, on the left sidewall at about the level of the top of the clutch pedal arm! It is a silver metal box--you have to undo 2 tough-to-reach screws and then undo the harness. There is a rectangular plate held on with screws--take this off and you will see the chips. Have fun--when I took mine out to investigate it before it did NOT reset any engine management, FYI.

Jun 21, 1999 - 05:20 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Fish, chips & mushy peas (well, EPROMs)
Message: OK, let's dispel some rumours and half-facts about the way the Elan ECU works. I think Bill is getting confused about how the program is stored in the ECU. In pre-1990 ECU's, the program was stored on a standard EPROM which was easily seen. In post-1990 (i.e. the Elan) ECU's, the program is stored on a standard EPROM (a 27C256 in the Elan's case), BUT it's hidden in a thing that GM call the MEMCAL (MEMory and CALibration package). This is the DIN4164-style rail with a blue cover on it. Inside the MEMCAL is the standard EPROM and the knock sensor signal shaping and detection circuitry. There's NO writable memory on the Elan MEMCAL. 5 minutes with a meter and 2 bits of wire will show you that the EPROM is brought out directly onto the connector. Another 5 minutes with an A+B DIN4164 rail and a hacksaw, and you've got a programming adaptor for GM MEMCALs. I'll get my arse in gear and put this information along with the ALDL stuff on a webpage soon. As to the ECU learning, this is true. However, it's nowhere NEAR as advanced as Bill makes out in his posting. The ECU will learn damping characteristics (at least I think that's what it does) that shifts things like the spark map around relative to RPM/air temp etc. You *can* change these over the ALDL, but the ECU will re-learn what it wants. Disconnecting the power loses all these. I can't see that any performance company could use these parameters to modify performance in any significant way. Perhaps I'm missing something, though :-> AS to Charlie's questions, the chipping companies just erase the program that's on the MEMCAL and stick a new one in. The non-volatile information appears to be stored in an EEPROM (possibly based on I2C bus, but I'm not sure). The big problem is that all the chips in the ECU are 'custom remarked', so they don't have standard identifiers on them. The processor is a Motorola 68HC11A8. As to reverse engineering it, I'm already working on Elan ECU type ANXZ (UK domestic SE turbo). If anyone wants binary dumps of the original and the SuperChip version and/or my paltry commented version, mail me privately. Hope that clears some stuff up! Cheers Ian. PS: I was the one who berated the SuperChip on isu-mods, Bill.

Jun 21, 1999 - 05:40 - From: Ian Levy
Title: More chippy things
Message: Forgot to mention about the schematics for the ECU. I spoke to a very helpful gent at Lotus when I started out on this (no, I wont mention his name) who tried to get me the schematic for the ECU. He very nearly got into VERY serious trouble for it. The ECU design is obviously copyright GM/Delco and they appear to be enforcing their copyright. The gent in question did however mention that they'd written most of the software 'in-house' at Lotus and that the only bits left of GM's code was the ALDL protocol handler. That does look possible - there are at least 2 different styles of code in the chip (one has definitely been made by a compiler, the other is DEFINITELY hand coded). I think that schematics and actual information about the ECU will be about as easy to find as rocking horse shit (think about it :->) Cheers Ian,

Jun 21, 1999 - 08:44 - From: Will
Title: Desperately seeking...
Message: Hi all, this is a request for any Lotus owners in the Cambridge/Newmarket area (UK). I'm trying to locate Gerald Turner, formerly of Haydon Daytune in Cambridge. He left there about 9 months ago to set up on his own working on Lotus cars from his home in Newmarket. Does anybody know (a) if that's still what he's doing, and (b) what his phone number is? Thanks in advance.

Jun 21, 1999 - 14:59 - From: charlie wallace
Title: its a start !
Message: thanks for the info Ian. Also i've started to upload my first 150 or so pages of the parts manual to my web site, its just basically a picture dump straight from my scanner. so no web pages as such, just raw B&W TIFF files, no indexes, some of the pages are 90o out of phase, some are in the wrong category. feel free to look at them though, http://www.charliex.net/Lotus/  Eventually schedule permitting i'll convert them to a browesable format and imagemaps and all that nice stuff... I'm just over 1/3 of the way through i`d say 8-)

Jun 21, 1999 - 18:31 - From: Jade
Title: Window regulator
Message: Jeff, You can fix that window regulator your self. I replaced the drivers side twice and after a grand decided to give it a try myself. You have done the hard part by getting the door panel off. You will need to take out the entire window mechanism. There are about 5 10mm bolts that need to be removed. The problem most likly is the motor slipping. This is due to a very very poor design of the motor. Once you have the parts out take the motor apart. Lift out the wheel that wraps up the cable and look at the little ruber thing. It will be torn so take it out and throw it in the trash. I replaced mine with 2 or 3 small nuts. Once you have it apart you will see what I am talking about. Save your money and spend some time, if you can get the door panel off you can fix this thing. Good luck. Jade

Jun 22, 1999 - 15:53 - From: charlie wallace
Title: getting to the power window doodah
Message: jade, do you mean the fiberglass panel on the inner door? it looked to me like this was partially bonded to the outer skin, is it ? did you have to cut it or anything ? or did you just strip it down as far as i did in on my web page, and then work through the access panels. If you did take off that panel i'd be interested in hearing more on it.. I'm getting fed up of my broken window, and i'd like to finish off my door stripdown article to include the power window repairs. anyone with any tips pls mail me or post.

Jun 22, 1999 - 19:43 - From: Jade
Title: window
Message: Charlie, the inner panel does not come off. You must go in through the access panels. The window regulator and center track will all come out. When you are looking at the door with the panel off you will see a cluster of 3 10mm nuts in the center of the door panel. Those hold the window regulator/motor in place. Top dead center of the door is another 10mm nut. That holds the top of the center track in place and if you look through the bottom middle access panel you will see another 10mm nut that holds the bottom of the center track in place. You will need to roll the window down about 1/2 to 3/4 of the way and take the little clip off that holds the window in place. Be carefull this clip likes to break. Once you have removed the window from the clip someone will need to hold it in the up possition until you have the center track and motor out. While someone is holding the window up, push the bolts back into the door panel, dont forget to unplug the power cable to the window motor. The top center one is a bitch. Now stand on one leg, close one eye, cross your fingers and wiggle the entire track and motor down to the bottom of the door, the top goes to the left and the bottom to the right. Once it is down it will slide out of the speaker hole. Now put a spray paint can in the door through the speaker hole to hold up your window. The entire center track and motor is what Lotus is going to sell you for $250-$300. Now that it is out every thing is easy until you have to put it back in. That top center bolt is very tricky but if you notice there is a small indentation in the fiberglass of the inner door panel. That is to allow you to slide that bolt into place. Once you get it back in loosen the bolts at the bottom of the two outside slidder guides and roll the window up and down. This will allow it to self center for alignment and not bind. Make sure every thing is tightened and close her back up. I am getting ready to do mine again. I have had some of those little slider guides on order from Carolina Motor cars for 4 months, they must be having a problem getting them. I have a schematic of the door if you would like it faxed to you. I will see if I can get it scanned and send it to Doug to post. I am getting a huge hesitation at 2700rpms does anyone have any ideas of what it might be? Maybe the CAS? Jade

Jun 23, 1999 - 10:28 - From: Chris
Title: Experience
Message: Rupert, I can highly recommend JCT600 although you may be struggling with £14K. I've had two Elans from them, both mint, low milage examples. Unfortunately, I wrote the first one off after only eight days, (sorry guys, I still feel sick about it) and Lenny (salesman) did me a brilliant deal on a BRG S2. Don't buy anything without a full Lotus Service history or anything that looks tired either, it will give you a lot of pain in the long run. Great site Doug. It's nice to find other Elan obsessives in the world.

Jun 23, 1999 - 13:17 - From: Thomas
Title: Door lock
Message: Charlie, Since we on this door strip down topic, I wonder if any of you have ever encountered problems with the automatic door lock module. Currently it giving off some loud buzzing sound on the passenger side door. Any thoughts??

Jun 23, 1999 - 20:26 - From: Doug
Title: various
Message: Wow, a lot of excitement about the doors lately. I'm feeling inspired to rip mine apart but will wait to hear from the masters. Anyone else spoken to Lotus about fuel leaks?? Charlie, the scans are great--keep it up!!

Jun 23, 1999 - 22:00 - From: Dean
Title: Engineering team's mascot?
Message: Does anyone have any information on the color combinations used for the M100 Elan Engineering team's mascot? I would like to get a flag made in time fordisplay at LOG19. I guess it was some combination of: yellow, green and black but I would like to get a color scheme from someone in the know. http://home.att.net/~giacopassid/M100_mascot.htm --

Jun 23, 1999 - 22:06 - From: Dean
Title: Transmission Oil Fill Location
Message: OK, I admit it, I can't find the transmission oil fill. It's location eludes me, even after looking it up in the repair manual.

Jun 24, 1999 - 01:23 - From: Doug
Title: Belts
Message: So I traded my car's belts in with a load of cash for some new ones. My car now runs nicely but with a new "belt turning" sound from the engine--anyone ever noticed this after a belt change (Yves?)? Well, I already gave the part number for the Timing Belt to be found (identical part) at an Isuzu dealer via www.partsvoice.com !! I will now add the part numbers for the other belts so you can get them too! There are 2 drive belts, one smaller than the other. I noticed these belts definitely wearing/cracking on my car and some others so check yours out! They are both groved belts, and seeing my old ones it seems they collect little silt/grit in the groove depths with age. The smaller belt says on it, "Bando Rib-Ace 4PK685" and the Isuzu part number written on it is "894139-0670" and the larger belt is "Bando Rib-Ace 6PK1045" with Isuzu part number "894362-7320" I've found these belts DO cost enough that you can save a great amount getting them all at your friendly local Isuzu dealer (mine is). To my surprise I examined my car's old (60K miles) timing belt and find it to be in visibly excellent condition--kinda too late now since I changed it though!! Yes, it does have Isuzu written on it (part #8944294860). I will get all of this into a "Timing Belt Write-up" sometime but want to get it down now as I am too busy for that now. BTW, Dean, nice Lotus pages! I will try to get some pictures of the tranny stuff next time my car is on the lift.

Jun 24, 1999 - 19:25 - From: Paul Dennis
Title: Transmission fill up, lock motor,fuel drip
Message: Dean the transmission oil is filled up via the speedo drive hole which is held in by a small bolt but be careful when undoing it as ive heard that they have been known to snap off!, to get access you need to remove the coolant expansion tank and even then its not easy, there is max and min mark on the speedo drive cable , the drain plug is the big nut underneath, lotus recommended Castrol TAF synthetic oil, hope this helps Thomas my passenger door lock makes a funny noise as well, but i would leave it until it goes wrong which is what the drivers side did i replaced the mechanism myself it wasnt easy but it can be done the window needs to be taken out but to replace the mech its self is just 3 bolts and to change the plugs over, unfortunately the unit comes as one and you cant just buy the motor the whole thing cost me £100 plus nearly a days work, if you need any further help then let us know, by the way if its not unlocking the car or locking it properly it could be the rod catching on the door panel which it was in my case which cased the motor to burn out. Doug good news about your fuel tank i am currently awaiting a reply from lotus about the matter and will keep you informed thanks once again and sorry about the long e-mail hope it wasnt too boring

Jun 24, 1999 - 20:08 - From: Dean
Title: Replacing Belts
Message: At last years LOG (Lotus Owners Gathering) in Atlanta I spoke with Arnie Johnson of LCU (Lotus Cars USA) about the need to have my belts changed. I mentioned my concern over having belts that were 7 years old even though the car had only 30K miles on it. Since I was going to have the 30K service performed at a dealer I was thinking that I should have the belts changed along with the other work. Arnie was adamant that I leave the belts alone. He said to wait for 60K.

Jun 25, 1999 - 00:15 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Tranny Fill Hole
Message: Adding tranny oil to a Isuzu 76 mm transmission (in all 1989-94 Lotus Elans) is by the fill hole above and to the right of where the left axle goes into the transmission. This is the driver's side for those of you in the US driving left hand drive models and the passenger's side for those of you in England driving right hand drive models. This hole is both the fill hole and the level point, meaning that, with the car level, you fill up the fluid to the level of the bottom of the hole until fluid comes back out. Filling by any other method without getting the fluid level correct, you take a chance on blowing out the tranny seals (overfull) or burning the teeth off the gear clusters (underfull). The fill plug is something like a 22 or 24 mm size hex bolt and I assure you that it is not easy to remove. Only 4,000 miles after having a Quaife diff installed, my tranny fill plug has already siezed to the point that I have broken a 1/2 inch drive swivel extension trying to remove it to check the fluid level. Redline MTL works very well with these transmissions. Bill Luton

Jun 25, 1999 - 22:59 - From: Andy
Title: pwr win, timing blt, aerial, door lock...
Message: I finally made it to your site, Doug... Wow! It's ironic that the topic seems to be door related...I currently have my panel off... Here's the situation: I've had problems w/ my window for the past 2 years...from requiring a little assistance up from my hand to being stuck in the mid position. If yours does this STOP and service it before you damage it like mine...By the way, thanks for your advice Jade...The realigning technique might be my solution to my frustrating dilemma! Here's my GHETTO fix...Since I continued to operate my window in the semi-broken phase...I ended up kinking the cable on the tracks...so with the regulator out of the vehicle...I replaced the cable by disassembling the motor...I couldn't find the right diameter cable, so I inquired @ a fishing store for leader material...(don't laugh...)they didn't have a steel cable in the diameter, so I opted for the monofilament -- actually the right outer diameter (around 300# test line!)...I ran the same length in the spool and frame and anchred the ends with a crimp...and stuffed it into the nylon glass anchor...so far --so good! Jade, in response to your reception problem on Randy's site...try this test: -Tune a strong AM station in the open (out of a garage or carport - this affects the reception). -If the reception is good, then your aerial is fine and the problem would lead me to believe the problem is in your tuner...the AM band is very critical to the Aerial, unlike the FM...you can even stick a long nail into the radio and get decent FM. -Also, can you tell me if this happened as a gradual problem or if it happened all of a sudden one day...this will help the diagnosis... Timing Belt: I had my mech. friend replace mine with a gates belt (dealer cost - around $13US)...sorry forgot the part #. If anyone has audio question...let me know...(form subs options, amps, to aftermarket power ants...) I broke mine - Thinking I looked cool going under a tollway guard...forgot about the antenna...blasted antenna...Check this out...at first, I thought to myself, "Man, I must have been really hauling ass - to have bent this antenna to 60 degrees!!!" Oh well, aftermarket is only $24...(in a Black mast too!!!) Oh yeah, my pass. door lock is acting up too...I'm planning on replacing it with a universal door lock actuator (about $10)...I'll keep in touch! Cheers - Andy.

Jun 28, 1999 - 09:56 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Pink Panel Syndrome
Message: Hi all. My red Elan has started to suffer from pink panel syndrome quite noticeably (that is, the boot and bonnet in particular have turned from red to pink). Even though this is only really visible from certain directions and in certain light, it's annoying the hell out of me. I took it to the local bodyshop who reckoned the only cure was a full flat and respray (1000 UKP - ouch!). It's going to Lotus tomorrow for a service, so I'll see what they say too. Anyone out there got any suggestions? Cheers, Ian

Jun 28, 1999 - 12:02 - From: Doug
Title: Paint
Message: Hey, Ian, have them paint it Green ;-) How's the ALDL program crawling along??

Jun 28, 1999 - 12:22 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Re: Paint
Message: Doug, green is a silly colour ;-> Besides, being colour blind, I doubt I'd even notice :->>> ALDL proggy is coming slowly. Just got new company domain up so I'll hopefully stick something up there soon. Cheers, Ian.

Jun 28, 1999 - 14:30 - From: charlie wallace
Title: respray
Message: a 1000ukp ? for a full respray, thats cheap. I`d do it, theres little you can do about the pinking cept maybe use a colour matcher wax which is short term and isn`t that good. there are some products that lift off the top layer off paint (t-cut), but i'll bet it goes deeper. mines the same, i never noticed it really till people pointed out on my web page pics. i was quoted around $5000 for a full respray to yellow, which is really the best colour of course ;) especially keen to get it done now as i filled my windscreen water from a gas station on the grapevine and its left a nasty chalky deposit in the paint on the bonnet, that'll teach me. i should get that leaky jet fixed too.

Jun 28, 1999 - 17:20 - From: Ian H
Title: Re-spray
Message: Ian, I have exactly the same problem with my 1990 Red elan, unfortunatley it is more noticeable as it would appear that at some point one of the previous owners had the panel the hood sits on re-sprayed, (most likely due to the scuffing) so this is a loveley deep unfaded red. I got a quote from Peter Smiths in Derby for approx £2500 - £3000 UKP and that was just for a external re-spray. If you do decide to get it done i would be very interested to hear how well it went, where you got it done and how much it cost. I have tried T-cut and various other colours restorers but the fading is a lot deeper than just the surface.

Jun 29, 1999 - 04:57 - From: Ian Levy
Title: Bloody paint
Message: I thought 1000UKP was cheap for a full respray, so I was dubious to start with. I was afraid that everyone would say that mopping (with T-Cut) wouldn't work :-

Jun 29, 1999 - 13:07 - From: Ian Levy
Title: More paint
Message: All, car's just come back from a service. The garage reckon that 'mopping' the car with T-Cut and re-polishing would get rid of the pinking for another couple of years. Total cost : 60 quid. I, however, have a bigger problem : they reckon it's been hit in a carpark or something recently because the rear bumper is out of alignment and has a couple of cracks in the gelcoat. That'd require respraying the bumper which would mean ........ So, that ends up as a full respray. The quote for the respray *only* is 850 quid + the cost of the replacement badges. I've had work done by this bodyshop before (when someone tried to break in) and they're superb! Off to phone the insurance company to see if they'll pay for it (since I've no idea how, where or when it happened). If anyone wants the name of the bodyshop/Lotus dealer, mail me privately. Cheers, Ian the soon-to-be skint :-<

Jun 30, 1999 - 07:21 - From: Ian H.
Title: New Exhaust
Message: Has anyone had thier exhaust replaced recently - the back box has gone on mine and i need a replacement - the only one i can find is a manifold and system exhaust from Janspeed, but this is not a S/S system, which is really what i am after. Has anyone got any advice as i am also worried about it sounding like a boy racers Nova. Thanks for your help. A while ago i think someone posted a request for information regarding a replacment window for the soft top, i found an advert in classic car mag yesterday and can dig it out if required.

Jun 30, 1999 - 10:33 - From: Rod Little
Title: New Exhaust
Message: Ian, I have a s/s exhaust - it came from Haydon Cars ( +44 1722 410077 ), they posted it to me and I just got local garage to fit it. Its a direct replacment, makes about the same sound as standard Lotus steel one. I found out afterwards that they would supply it with less stuff in the back box - hence making more noise. Note that Jason mentioned that "It turns out there is ferretic & non ferretic stainless steel. I have the former, which means its starting to go cosmetically "rusty" in places. Make sure you ask for a non ferretic one - ie not one from Chris Neil Ltd! ". Mines been on over a year now and still looks fine.

Jun 30, 1999 - 11:17 - From: Jason
Title: Paint & Exhaust
Message: I had a day last summer with some T-Cut and every Autoglym product you can name. I wasn't particularly impressed with T-cut (or some of the autoglym stuff for that matter), and I doubt it will solve the pink problem. It did seem to lift quite a lot of paint (though it does seem thick - the paint coat). If you do all start re-spraying, some things to consider: The flat cover that the roof rubs - If there are no marks its an obvious give-away to a dealer / buyer its been resprayed. Unless you have a total respray, the new vs existing spray may be really obvious, ie pink and red. Ian H, If you want to hear my exhaust you know where I am. I've now moved back to MO. Ian L - A local fool with even worse brakes than an elan (!) hit the back of my car last year. Replacement bumper and respray was about 850 - 1000 from Peter Smiths - excellent colour match.

Jun 30, 1999 - 12:43 - From: Rod Little
Title: Brakes
Message: Anyone heard of "tart" (sp?) brake pads and disks ?

Jun 30, 1999 - 14:33 - From: Roy Bailey
Title: Stuff
Message: Hello all,I would be interested to see that article on replacement plastic rear windows Ian H. I am going to get my rear number plate perspex cover made up next week, If anyone is interseted I'll let you know how much it cost - I'm sure some of you have that annoying craze on your too !! Sounds like Ian L is doing some grounbreaking work on the ol' ECU programming ! Keep it up guys ! Regards Roy Bailey

Jun 30, 1999 - 17:18 - From: Ian H
Title: Rear Window/perpex cover
Message: Roy, The contact for the advert is ALAN on 0181 777 6764 he is available 7 days a week from 7am to 10pm. Seems very long hours so he is most probably running a very small company from home or something. Anyway i hope this is what you were looking for. I would be interested to know how things go. I also have the older elan with the Perspex Plate cover, luckily mine is not too bad at the mo but i would appreciate knowing for future reference.