March 2001 Message Board

Mar 1, 2001 - 04:32 - From: Bryn
Title: Wheel Centres
Message: Duncan, just got some myself from SJ Sportscars on 01363 7717790. Cost £51.40 inc. delivery for a set. Quality is not great, but do look good on the car.

Mar 1, 2001 - 06:27 - From: Geoff
Title: Buying an Elan
Message: Hello all. I am in the process of trying to buy an SE Elan. I know VERY little about car mechanics, but am desperately passionate about owning a Lotus - Do you think I will be able to get away with it? ;-). Can anyone recommend a good dealer in the UK, and a sensible price for a 30,000 mile SE in excellent condition? I will drive for days to get there, as long as the dealer is excellent, and they have a quality car. I have an age problem as far as insurance companies are concerned (23), but have a quote for 2000(ish)pounds. Anyone out there heard of happier insurance stories for 23 year olds? Thanks in anticipation, Geoff. Great message board by the way! - Can't wait to let you guys hear about my first Lotus breakdown!

Mar 1, 2001 - 08:30 - From: Gordon
Title: Re- Elan Insurance
Message: Geoff- I too am 23 years of age and had an absolute nightmare finding insurance when I bought my Elan S2 last year (I was 22 then!). After relentless phone calls, I eventually got insured fully comp. for £1600 with a £450 excess. That was through a broker under a Norwich Union policy. Check back through the message board archives, as a lot of owners have offered names of companies that offer competitive rates for Elans. Our trouble is finding ones that accept under 25's! One company quoted me over £5000, I said I'd mortgage my house and get back to them... If you want the number of my broker let me know and I'll dig it out. Good luck!!

Mar 1, 2001 - 11:17 - From: Scott
Title: insurance in the USA
Message: Hey guys, I don't want to depress you too much but I only pay $600 a year to insure the Elan. And that is collision and comprehensive insurance with a zero dollar deductible. Now, I am 33 and married and have 2 other cars and that may be the main reason for the low rate. But I believe its another reason...my insurance company (Allstate) has so little data on the Elan in USA, they can't price it correctly. Normally that would mean they would go the other way (with a really high premium) but since the car is only valued at $20k+ they came in with a reasonable rate. Maybe in the UK the insurance companies know what an "Elan" is and charge accordingly. Just my 2 cents. -Scott

Mar 1, 2001 - 11:49 - From: Jeremy
Title: reasons to be cheerful
Message: Scott, don't forget you get cheap petrol (gas?) over there too! Not so worried about the insurance cos I'm getting so old that the insurance company will soon have to pay me!

Mar 1, 2001 - 11:56 - From: Duncan Lamb
Title: Wheel Centres - Thanks Bryn
Message: Thanks Bryn, I had a brainwave, and e-mailed them yesterday and they got back to me with the same price you mentioned. As I'll have to take the wheels off to put the badges on, I quite fancy painting the brake calipers at the same time. I've read Doug's report on how to do it, but SJ Sportscars reckon the only way for the colour to last is to powdercoat the calipers. Anyone had any experience, and Doug, if yours have lasted, where can we get the kit you used from?

Mar 1, 2001 - 11:59 - From: Dave M.
Title: reason to be cheerful, Part 2
Message: Totally unrelated, but in case you hadn't heard, Speedvision JUST signed the contract to cover F1 live for 2001. I've been a little nervous wondering if anyone was going to see it non-pay per view this year (could someone please slap Bernie?). Call me presumptuous, but I imagine there are a few other fans of the circus out there. If only Team Lotus would come back...

Mar 1, 2001 - 13:13 - From: Rod
Title: Caliper Painting
Message: I painted my calipers a few years ago, and the paint is still on. I bought a kit from a UK motor shop, that was specifically for the job. I have the packaging and rest of the kit at home - shout if you want me to dig it out and see if there is more detail on the supplier etc.

Mar 1, 2001 - 13:19 - From: Rod
Title: Buying an Elan
Message: You don't see many Elans at dealers nowadays. I spotted one at Kings near Warwick last week. You can use the lotus web site to search for cars at dealers : http://www.lotuscars.co.uk/template.cfm?name=lotcarsfindacar and you can also get a list of dealers from the same web site, so you could ring around or email all the dealers to see what stock they have. You should also consider looking for a private buyer. There are cars around in private hands that have been very well looked after. Good luck in your search - oh, at 34 with full NCD my insurance was 350ukp last year - do have lots of security fitted though.

Mar 1, 2001 - 16:07 - From: Richard
Title: Re: Insurance
Message: I have had my Elan for 2 years now, and I was 23 when I first got it, I have never paid more than £650 for the insurance. I have full no claims bonus, and have had for the time I have owned the Elan. I was with Admiral to start with, and although it was close this year I have gone with Tesco insurance. The only stipulation for both companies was that it had a Thatcham Cat2 device fitted (at a cost of approx £100) I am now 25 and only pay £600 with my girlfriend & brother on it as well, this is for the south coast of England, and estimating the mileage at 10000 per year. Hope this helps

Mar 1, 2001 - 16:47 - From: Duncan Lamb
Title: Rod - Yes Please! & Insurance
Message: If you can dig out the packaging and supplier details without too much hassle, that would be great, then when I've done the job I'll be ready to take and send Doug those photos I've been promising all winter! Insurance! Well, I'm going to give Footman James a go, but I'm currently with Nationwide, who insure me in London with al my mods fully comp for £660, and I only have 3 years NCB (I'm 29). However Nationwide are changing their underwriters from AXA to Churchill, and Churchill won't touch the mods, so I've tried AXA direct for the forthcoming year, and even going for protected NCB they've beaten the previous year's premium through Nationwide. I'll make a big effort to find the cheapest insurer and will let everyone know how I get on over the next 3 weeks.

Mar 1, 2001 - 17:58 - From: Russ
Title: Buying Cars
Message: Geoff - I've just bought a 30,000 mile Elan in excellent condition, expect to pay 13k privately and 15k to a dealer. You could try Derek Dean in Uxbridge - he's usually got a few. I too know nothing about cars but if you do decide to go privately find one you like the look of, check out the history, have a drive and if all seems good make an offer 'subject to satisfactory inspection' then after you've paid a deposit 'subject to satisfactory inspection' get a professional inspection done. I found a company out of the back of Classic and Sportscar Magazine to do mine. Well worth the £200 (included HPI check) for a bit of piece of mind. Try to get a friend with you to witness the 'subject to satisfactory inspection bit'. You should be able to get your deposit back if it's a shed underneath.

Mar 1, 2001 - 18:20 - From: Rod
Title: Brake Caliper Paint
Message: Savage Brake Caliper Paint, the makers appear to be - Trillogy Ltd, Tingewick Road Ind. Park, Buckingham, Bucks. MK18 1SU T:01280 822865 F:01280 822735. Mine came from an Allwoods Discount Motor Store for £14.99 ( reduced from £19.95 ). Comes in Red, Blue, Yellow and Black, includes enough paint for 4 calipers. Includes caliper cleaner, and then paint and hardener that you mix together, wait 15 minutes then start painting. I am just putting some pictures of the kit here : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/brakecalipers/dcmalbum.htm click on the small pictures to get high quality pictures.

Mar 1, 2001 - 18:32 - From: Bill Luton
Title: high temp paint
Message: Foliatec is the big European company I've seen selling caliper lacquer paint kits over here in the US. I saw them advertised in the UK magazine Fast Car a year before they started selling it in the US magazines. It is supposed to be really noxious to work with because of the fumes._ _ _The discount stores in the US are selling Duplicolor brand ceramic impregnated high temp engine paint in two different temperature ranges. I think the lower one with the wide selection of colors is 650 degrees F and the higher temp with aluminum and black only colors is 1,200 degrees F. I've used the older high temp paint on calipers and had no problem, the ceramic should be even better._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 2, 2001 - 02:11 - From: Kev
Title: Insurance & Caliper paint..
Message: I've just got a quote for a Elan N/A (same group as the SE) from Footman James --- £229 fully comp agreed value and free breakdown recovery. I'm 26 with full NCB. I have to join Club lotus though (£25 not sure if its worth it!!!). It is restricted to 3000 but they will do unrestricted policies. The good point is that you don't need a 2nd car. Caliper paint kits can be obtained from www.speeding.co.uk for about £16 all inc.

Mar 2, 2001 - 05:52 - From: Geoff
Title: Thanks for the advice!!!
Message: Very many thanks to Gordon, Scott, Rod, Richard, Duncan, Russ and Kev for all the advice on Buying and Insurance! I can't believe the response, you are all so helpful!!! Armed with my "used elan" buyers guide from Russ, and my excellent Insurance advice from everyone else, I will venture out and try to find a quality elan for the right money. Wish me luck, I'm going in...

Mar 2, 2001 - 08:40 - From: Gordon
Title: Accelerator Cable
Message: I have to re-emphasise the point Ian and Doug made earlier this month about taking up the slack on the accelerator cable. I myself had what I thought was only a minor amount of slack in the cable, but on adjustment found that the difference in acceleration was very noticeable, much to my delight! I recommend all to check their cables - extra speed at zero cost is not a bad deal, wouldn't you agree?!

Mar 2, 2001 - 09:31 - From: Ian
Title: Insurance and Accelerator Cable
Message: I am 23 years old... no NCB, claim last year, 4000 mile classic policy through Diamond Insurance Brokers on 01442825481 with AXA for about £450. Makes it about 2000 less than ANYONE else I tried :) Worth it despite being insured by the broker that specifically markets itself as "Insurance for Women"! With regards the accelerator cable... I have had a look through the message archives and the other pages on the site, but cant find details on how to check this... can someone point me in the right direction or provide the information again (preferably in a format that a complete idiot can follow)? Finally... DJ Dean do have a few Elans, I drove two of theirs back in May of last year before I got my current one, obviously each car is different but I was EXTREMELY disappointed with the quality of those that I tried out. One had braking that was so poor I almost crashed pulling out of their garage as it veered sharply to the left, and the other was very high mileage in Calypso pink and was still about 14k. They may stock a lot of parts and have a lot of cars on site, but personally there was a strong whiff of cowboy about the place. However, in their defense, they do have the replacement clock for my car, although it is £50!

Mar 2, 2001 - 10:19 - From: Duncan Lamb
Title: Thanks Guys
Message: Thanks to everyone who responded so quickly on the caliper paint issue. I shall get some ordered, and no doubt have a fun weekend fairly soon. I'll wait for the weather to warm up a bit, though!

Mar 2, 2001 - 12:12 - From: Bryn
Title: Alignment
Message: Had rear suspension alignment adjusted today, managed to get toe in to +1.5mm on one side (within published tolerance) but could only adjust as far as -1mm on the other side, after that there is no more adjustment available. Any views on whether running with these settings will upset the handling and if so any ideas on a fix?.

Mar 2, 2001 - 18:53 - From: George
Title: Accelerator Cable
Message: Doug, do we have a write up on the accelerator cable adjustment?

Mar 2, 2001 - 18:58 - From: Rod
Title: Expensive Clock
Message: Ian, did you really just say DJ Dean want £50 for the Elan Digital clock ! Seriously I will sell you the one I bought last year for what it cost me ( I am 99% sure it was £10 ) - its in the box un-used. I would rather do this than see you ripped off. Although I would not be surprised to see DJ Dean at Donington selling them for a tenner next weekend.

Mar 2, 2001 - 20:51 - From: charlie
Title: accelerator cable and caliper paint
Message: Here's the short write-up i did on it, since I'm the one who discovered it (at least on here), http://www.charliex.net/acclerat.htm . I had my calipers painted with high temperature caliper paint, i burned it silly in less than a week, granted i had a stuck caliper, which destroyed the paint finish on one side in about two hours . Not typical but an indication as to what will happen after a period of time, consider it environmental acceleration. I would stove them next time, they look terrible now.

Mar 3, 2001 - 06:47 - From: Les Hooker
Title: New Shape Elise V Old Shape Elise
Message: Dear sir, Could you please give me your feedback, if possible at this early stage. To state what in the Lotus Drivers experience is the better car to drive. My own car is the Lotus Elise 140. Thanks very much for any comments.

Mar 3, 2001 - 08:45 - From: Rod
Title: Elise BBS
Message: Les, I suggest you try and ask your question on the Lotus Elise here : http://www.british-cars.co.uk as this site is dedicated to the 1990's Lotus Elan SE Turbo ( M100 model ), only.

Mar 3, 2001 - 17:20 - From: Jason Crellin
Title: Hi all
Message: I was just passing & thought I'd catch up on what was happening on the Elan front. Good to see the problems are still the same! Good to see the regulars & lots of new contributors here. If I see you all at Donington I'll come for a chat & you can pillory my Elise - Ian H, you going? Me & Chris are. Send me an email if you want to meet up. all the best, Jason ....and Les, Mk2 is better allegedly - but you'll wait a long time to get one.

Mar 4, 2001 - 05:57 - From: George
Title: Accelerator Cable
Message: Charlie, thanks for the short write up. I really appreciate it! :-) I did run into one problem though; for some odd reason, I could not find a way to adjust it.... Call me incompetent mechanically...lol I guess, I could try to move the bolt at the left side of the cable, but, that part seem so fragile... I was afraid if I use a wrench, I'd break it. So, I need a little bit more help from Charlie, or whoever that can give me some more tips. My cable definitely has some slack to it.

Mar 4, 2001 - 12:30 - From: steven matthijssen
Title: oil pressure
Message: My elan starts off with the oil pressure over the "5" mark. After some normal driving it goes down to the first line (2,5?) When revving up to 4-5000 it goes even down further. Oil level is ok. Car has run 140.000 km. Always well serviced. Last oil change was 10.000 km ago. (incl. filter) Oil is Shell Helix.

Mar 4, 2001 - 14:29 - From: Jason Crellin
Title: For Sale - (UK) EBC Greenstuff pads
Message: I have a set of unused & boxed EBC greenstuff front pads for sale. I remember I paid about 55 UKP for them. 35 UKP - I'll be at Donington

Mar 4, 2001 - 16:51 - From: Alan
Title: Donington/Dealers
Message: Just to say North York's Lotus Owners Club will be meeting at the Woodhall M1 South Services [just south of Sheffield] on Saturday morning to drive the last stretch to Donington together. Any fellow Lotus enthusiasts are invited to join us. Leaving the services 9.30 am prompt, we get there around 9 am for a natter first [and probably a warm up if the weather doesn't improve]. Richard, don't worry about cleaning the car, just be there! When are you going to crack the 200,000 miles? DEALERS:- Just a quick few words in praise of Chris Foulds nr Huddersfield, West Yorks. I've always found him and his right hand man Dave very helpful and they are obviously interested in the cars and owners. Its a bit of a trek for me but we're in the wilderness around York. Bought my S2 from Paul Matty and found him to be very helpful too with good knowledgeable staff, always a good range of cars to look over too.

Mar 4, 2001 - 18:16 - From: Russ
Title: Brake Warning Light
Message: My brake warning light is coming on under heavy braking - is this a Lotus Elan 'feature' or something I should get looked at? Anyone else had this happen - fault in the sensor or the braking circuit itself? Brakes seem to be working fine at the moment. Fluid is OK - just below max, car brakes with no pull. Any help appreciated

Mar 4, 2001 - 18:42 - From: Rod
Title: Donington - Lotus Elan M100 Meeting
Message: Offer still stands for an Elan specific meeting at 10am at Donington services and then at 10:30am the 10min drive to the Lotus show on 10/11th. Details here on Doug's site at : http://www.lotuselancentral.com/donington2001.htm which will link you to full information.

Mar 5, 2001 - 01:23 - From: Steve
Title: Uprated Brakes
Message: I'm finally getting around to ordering new discs and pads and not surprisingly after reading numerous good things have decided to go for EBC greenstuff pads. Question is though what discs ? Christopher Neil supply ATE and another company I've found have Black Diamond in cross drilled, 12 grooved or both. I haven't been able to find a supplier for EBC discs as yet. Anyone had any experience with the above ? Thanks.

Mar 5, 2001 - 05:12 - From: Jeremy
Title: wastegate
Message: what does a wastegate do? is it responsible for my car cutting out at max boost at about 6000 revs? the warning light indicates a map sensor problem. is it expensive? who could fix this in Cumbria/north england?

Mar 5, 2001 - 05:19 - From: Rod
Title: Expensive Part
Message: Just had an email from a fellow owner who's radiator cap failed ( a £2 part ! ) while on the motorway, blew out all the water and caused at engine failure. Complete engine rebuild was apparently something new to Lotus mechanics, and very expensive. Suggest we all check our radiator caps next time you open the bonnet.

Mar 5, 2001 - 07:14 - From: Richard A Clifton
Title: Expensive part
Message: Rod, I would suggest your chum wasn't paying attention. Even a very small amount of coolant leaking can be picked up by an average snout even if he couldn't see plumes of steam escaping or coolant on his windscreen! His nose should then have informed his eyes to check the temperature gauge and keep on checking it. If he was tootalling down the motorway and the gauge started rising then this should have added sirens to the alarm bells. Moral: If you smell anti-freeze, don't automatically assume it's the cheap perfume you bought the missus in a rash (and probably mis-guided) show of affection!

Mar 5, 2001 - 07:16 - From: Richard A Clifton
Title: 200,000
Message: Alan: 17th June

Mar 5, 2001 - 08:11 - From: Dave M.
Title: brake stuff
Message: Steve, don't know where you are located for sourcing the EBC rotors, but in the US try Open Road International. See the Repairs section/List of replacement parts for the contact. If in the motherland, apparently they are much more available, though I don't know exactly where. For those who have painted their calipers, are they easy to clean? i.e. does the dust come off easily? I don't like the sounds of the burnt-look Charlie ended up with, but even if the paint doesn't burn, with the stock wheels not being conducive to cleaning brake parts, I fear they will look burnt after a few drives!

Mar 5, 2001 - 10:51 - From: Ian H
Title: Brake Warning Light
Message: Russ, I used to have a similar problem with my brake warning light, and still do now and again. I managed to get rid of it for a bit when I changed my brake fluid. I now keep it topped up to just above the Max line and this seems to work. I don't know if any others have had a similar problems or what they have done to fix it but I would interested to know. I change my brake fluid annually and use dot 4 synthetic stuff. You really have to service your brakes often otherwise they are crap.

Mar 5, 2001 - 11:11 - From: Ian
Title: Brakes
Message: I have the ATE Power Discs and EBC Greenstuff pads and they are fine. I can't compare directly to the EBC discs because I have never used them, but I haven't had any problems with the ATE ones and they are vastly improved over the normal discs/pads. One benefit of the ATE discs is that they aren't handed, so you can't end up putting them on the wrong wheels. It also means if you somehow destroy one, you can buy a single disc to replace, rather than a pair of EBC handed discs. As for the brake light, I used to get exactly the same thing and the dealership said the light is very sensitive to brake fluid levels and should be topped right up to the max line or even just above as suggested by someone else. It used to be particularly noticeable when braking relatively hard downhill. Didn't seem to noticably affect braking, but a fluid top-up means the light no longer comes on. Finally... Rod, very kind offer on the clock, would love to take you up on it.... £50 did seem rather a high price for such appallingly cheap looking plastic digital clock!

Mar 5, 2001 - 11:27 - From: Mark
Title: Wheel Centres
Message: Just got a set for my Elan - they are the plastic ones and look as good as the metal ones (judging from the pictures I have seen) and a damn site cheaper - £17.01 for a set of four (inc vat and postage) from Haydon Cars ( www.lotus-cars.com ).

Mar 5, 2001 - 13:04 - From: Steven
Title: camshaft bearings
Message: Today I opened my cam shaft cover. Camshafts do not look like they should: not bright and shining. Oil residues all over the place, looks like oil has been overheated or exhaust fumes came along. Possibly wrong has been used. Anybody have any experience with this? Camshaft bearings do not look to good. Are they available or are they part of the whole cylinder head? Advice highly appreciated! Steven

Mar 5, 2001 - 13:11 - From: peter bentley
Title: Doors & Interior & Rear Ends
Message: Hi gang, many thanks to those who gave advice on the door alignment problem. I spent a few hours at the weekend making steps towards better alignment although i didn't quite finish it totally. The interior bits and bobs have been sent on for 'Carbonising' i hope to pick them up This Sunday after Lotus 2001 so will have some pics soon if anyone is interested. The rear ends point of my question centres around my car feeling loose when turning right at speed I Hasten to add, its a similar feeling to that of rear wheel drive car just before the back breaks away, I've checked the rear wheel bearings and all is well, the tyres are brand new, the car has had the tracking done by a laser...anything else i can check ??????

Mar 5, 2001 - 13:24 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Brake lights, disks, and camshafts
Message: The primary function of the brake warning light is to let the driver know if a tail light has burnt out. Yes, in different cars the light can be connected to a fluid level sensor or pressure sensor in the system to warn of leaks or failure, but it is a lot more common to have a brake light bulb burn out than anything else. Next in line would be to check if the fluid level sensor in the reservoir is unplugged, grounded, or the wiring ripped out of it._ _ _On brake disks, I've been selling cross drilled rotors for a number of years now, and have never heard of a disk cracking. The holes are chamfered to a depth below the limit to prevent any sharp edges that might crack. The rotors are drilled before they are ever used, so cracking from temper is not an issue. I do know that trying to drill a rotor that has been heat cycled will almost definitely cause cracking, but drilling a new, unused rotor will not._ _ _The camshaft is heat treated (parkerized) and will have black lobes. This is normal. Worry if it is shiny, which indicates wear through the heat treated depth. Oil coating on everything under the valve cover is normal, and oil only looks clear for the first few minutes out of the bottle, it soon turns brown with use._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 5, 2001 - 13:35 - From: Rod
Title: Ian - Clock
Message: Ian, can you make the Donington show this weekend - I could bring the clock along - if not drop me an email to lotus@thepitlane.com with a postal address and I will post the clock to you.

Mar 5, 2001 - 13:37 - From: Rod
Title: Painted Calipers
Message: My calipers have been painted a few years now, when I clean the wheels I just use a stiff brush on the calipers too. They look fine.

Mar 5, 2001 - 16:23 - From: Paul Berenson
Title: Exhaust Tip
Message: Doug, I recently ordered the cat back exhaust from Bill Isuzperformance, and since you have bought an installed this system I was hoping you could answer a question for me. I am going to order a custom exhaust tip from a company called Alloy Options ( http://www.alloyoptions.on.ca/pr.html ) but I am not sure of the correct length for this tip to fit the the new system. Do you know what the length is from where the pipe exits the muffler to the very farthest point of the rear bumper. Alloy options can make a custom length, and will engrave either ELAN or LOTUS into the top of the tip. And while I am asking questions, which would you have engraved, LOTUS or ELAN. Thanks in advance.

Mar 5, 2001 - 17:06 - From: George S
Title: Greasy Kid stuff...
Message: Recently found grease weeping from around the rt. front wheel. Harry and I agree, its the CV boot gone bad. Harry has just returned from 'Lotus School' (an obvious oxymoron-ism):-0!. Anyway he was brought up to speed there, on a new US model coming next year... the Elsie S-2. He says I'll want to dump my Elan for it...HA! Who's got the pictures of this one? BTW, they (Automart) have a 'race-only' burnt-orange Exige on the floor...NOT for sale :-( , but looking is still free. Drool rags provided...) Now I'm off to find Sikaflex, as it is raining here! Geo

Mar 5, 2001 - 17:14 - From: George S
Title: Sikaflex 221
Message: Just got off the land-line with West Marine, in Newport Beach. They have Sikaflex 221 on the shelf! Yahoo, now I can stop wearing my rubber wellies when it rains! Geo

Mar 5, 2001 - 19:57 - From: George
Title: Ernesto
Message: Ernesto, i saw your car today. you should get a front right tire soon... That one is not looking too well. :-)

Mar 6, 2001 - 03:06 - From: Richard S
Title: Ron Hickman Talk
Message: This coming Thursday 8/3/01 Ron Hickman who was at Lotus 58-67 and principle designer of the 1st Elan and Lotus Design and Development Director 62-67 will be giving a talk to the Club Lotus Midlands Area at the Moat House Inn, Kings Coughton, Alcester, Warickshire starting around 20.00. Before setting out can I recommend that you confirm with the Midlands Area Leader Dipak on 0121 246 0244 before 18.00 that Ron is coming as last year he got held up in Jersey by fog.

Mar 6, 2001 - 04:00 - From: Doug
Title: stuff
Message: Well, I'm home from a week trip up to NoCal. Glad I took the Subaru beater car as it is water tight and 4WD and the weather here has been truly "English" lately! Looking forward to jumping in the Elan in the morning! Paul, would like to add your comments about the system to the write-up when you get it installed! I can measure that distance if you want but you may want to install it and then see what length you really want to look the way you want. Those tips look good on that site and I never got one for mine yet so let me know how that goes too. Sorry I can't remember who was asking what but here goes: Brake light on = add fluid most likely, a good time to bleed the system to be sure the fluid is well though!! Low oil pressure = possibly a blocked oil filter element, it should go up when the engine revs higher so this is due to something getting blocked as the pressure goes up--change the filter now!! Painted Calipers = mine are still fine and clean easily with some product and spray, though I usually just use a brush and H2O. Brake parts = can you guys with non-Lotus items get me part info/model numbers, prices, and supplier and I will add the info to the site?! Jeremy's wastegate: check to see if the wastegate pushrod is sticking (a common UK Elan problem) if not then are you over boosting from a MBC?

Mar 6, 2001 - 06:26 - From: Bryn
Title: Speedo Cable Replacement
Message: I need to replace my speedo cable, able to remove it at the gearbox end no problem, but not sure how it unclips from the back of the speedo. Can anyone advise?

Mar 6, 2001 - 07:43 - From: Ian H
Title: Rear Lamp
Message: Had a small accident over the weekend, which was basically due to me being lazy and not wiping the condensation build up on my windows, due to the leaking roof. I ended up backing into a 4X4 with bullbars and cracked my rear light cluster, no serious damage as I only just touched it. But obviously I am now looking for a replacement. Did anyone find out if these are available from another source as according to http://www.sjsportscars.co.uk  they are £230 UKP each. An expensive crack. Any help appreciated, yours shamefully, Ian.

Mar 6, 2001 - 08:09 - From: Richard S
Title: Re: Rear Lamp
Message: Ian, Have you tried a Renault dealer as they are the same as used on Renault Alpina GTA's?, or what about Derek Dean's.

Mar 6, 2001 - 08:31 - From: charlie
Title: Accelerator Adjustment
Message: There's a small nut at the back end of the cable, where it goes into the bracket that holds it in place. This should be tight up against the plate where the cable goes through, undo it a little, then unscrew the cable away from the plate, till it it tightens up the cable then retighten the locknut. Don't make it too tight as you might get the accelerator pedal sticking. Make sure the flange on the semi circular actuator touches the stop plate.. I'll do some more pictures, after all they are worth a thousand words. Anyone want to clean my calipers if its so easy ;-)

Mar 6, 2001 - 10:35 - From: Alan
Title: Insurance [UK]
Message: Noticed a few mails about insurance lately. Wouldn't do any harm to give Eaton-Doughty a call on 01623 559982. Kim Eaton is a name probably familiar to some of you as a driving force behind Lotus Drivers Club in recent years. Genuine Lotus enthusiast and a good guy all round, he's just saved a friend of mine a lot of money by insuring his everyday and Lotus Cars together. Worth a call I would have thought.

Mar 6, 2001 - 11:07 - From: Kev
Title: Rear speaker box type thing
Message: Can anyone tell me, what is the easiest way to remove the rear speakers or the whole box. I'm looking at upgrading them for slightly bigger/better ones.

Mar 6, 2001 - 12:56 - From: Richard A Clifton
Title: Blaupunkt Cambridge
Message: My original radio/cassette unit has taken a turn for the worse and I was wondering if any of you chappies that have upgraded your sound systems might still have the original. Would any of you kind souls care to donate it to a worthy cause? OK, maybe 'donate' isn't the right word. There is one good thing about it though: I can't accidentally tune into the Terry Wogan Show.

Mar 6, 2001 - 15:43 - From: charlie
Title: rear speakers
Message: just pull the seats forward and undo the 4 screws holding the speakers in. I had bigger holes made to accommodate bigger speakers, others had the box rebuilt, i didn't have to do this.

Mar 6, 2001 - 16:24 - From: Neil T
Title: Music
Message: How have people improved the quality of music inside the Elan. The front speakers seem to be very poor probably due to the size restriction and the rear ones are shielded by the seats. I don't want to do any radical but I would like it a bit better.

Mar 6, 2001 - 17:04 - From: Kev
Title: Music & speaker box.
Message: Neil, you should change the front speakers for larger ones. Remover the old ones with the plastic adapter and cut a slightly bigger hold in the adapter. Then mount the larger ones (6.5" is biggest will fit) magnet first so they sit on the outside of the adapter instead of the inside. I'm doing the 2nd speaker tomorrow if you want me to take pictures. Using this method you can fit deeper speakers without fouling the windows. I replaced them with cheapish sony 2 way 6.5". These are shallow mount and fit best, also they leave space behind for better bass. Get the speakers from Motor world for £37 they are Sony Xplode 140Watt max. Also they have bright red cone that matches the red leather stripes!! Charlie, how did you remove the whole box to modify it? I would like to remove it to do a good job.

Mar 6, 2001 - 17:24 - From: Alan
Title: Radio problem
Message: Richard, sorry to hear about the radio packing up. The good news is if you tail one of our guys in his classic Elan down to Donington on Saturday you'll be able to hear what a proper Lotus sounds like!

Mar 6, 2001 - 20:06 - From: Doug
Title: Lotus Etiquette
Message: What exactly defines a "proper Lotus"?

Mar 6, 2001 - 23:52 - From: Steve
Title: Lotus Etiquette
Message: I think he means something that breaks down a lot :-] Guess he's right then, the M100 is out !

Mar 7, 2001 - 04:44 - From: Richard A Clifton
Title: Whoa!
Message: Steady on boys. He was only joking.

Mar 7, 2001 - 05:27 - From: Rod
Title: Proper Lotus
Message: I am pretty sure dump valves/manual boost controllers and Turbos are not something you would expect to see on most Lotus cars ;-) However I am more than happy with my electric windows, air conditioning, decent heater, central locking, electric/heated mirrors and need the turbo in order to propel all these accessories along ! I would add that Alan is an M100 S2 owner, so I know it was a lighthearted comment.

Mar 7, 2001 - 05:40 - From: Pete Buckley
Title: tarox discs
Message: Have now installed Tarox discs and pads on the front wheels and they are much better than the standard items, the part numbers are - discs-1331.pads spo153.and the tel. no. in the UK to Tarox is 01706-222872.Thank,s to Peter Bentley for this info

Mar 7, 2001 - 06:33 - From: Ian
Title: Car Audio
Message: With regards the suggestion to upgrade to 6 inch speakers at the fronts, I would suggest that this might be a little rash. Although on the whole, a bigger speaker will provide you with a deeper fuller sound, there is little point hacking the doors apart to put in cheap 6 inch speakers. I have some Infinity Kappa 4 inch speakers in the original holes and they sound great. The other advantage is there is no obvious upgrade in there to attract the way of a wandering car audio theif as they are hidden behind the original grilles. Obviously a 4 inch driver wont give you any worthwhile bass at all, so I have two subs mounted in behind the seats in the positions taken up by the original rear speakers. However, they require an airtight enclosure (not the flimsy piece of plastic provided to mount the original rear speakers in) so I have two boxes built that sit nicely in the original space and so are also totally hidden. You will of course need a relatively small sub that can work in such a small enclosure, I have the Focal Utopia 5WS drivers... I understand a couple of other people have an 8 inch JL Audio sub which is also designed for very small enclosures. Personally... although I want my car stereo to sound good, I really don't want it to draw much attention and currently everything from the outside looks as exactly as it did when it left the factory

Mar 7, 2001 - 07:29 - From: George
Title: throttle cable and stuff...
Message: Well, I finally adjusted my throttle cable. The end result is that, yes, I do feel the acceleration has improved! On the down side, I think I will have to tune the MBC again, since that every time I full throttle, the boost just goes off the scale. Also, after I've adjusted the cable, I noticed the position of the the throttle pedal has raised noticeably. Did this happened to the rest of the crew? Now, this is causing me some problems, since I have the Momo pedals installed... Right now, everytime when I hit brake, I am also hitting gas. I guess I'll have to get smaller pedal covers or something. I hated the factory rubber covers, also I only have 2 left anyway... One is missing somewhere. Any recommendations on a better (smaller) fitting pedal covers? Doug, you were in N.Cal? Should've given me a call! I would've taken you out to get a beer or something. Oh well, maybe next time. :-)

Mar 7, 2001 - 07:31 - From: George
Title: By the way..
Message: Hey guys, does anyone know that if the throttle cable is an Isuzu part?

Mar 7, 2001 - 08:06 - From: Dave M.
Title: proper sounds
Message: Almost spilled my coffee this morning when it appeared we had a little thing going among new/old Elan owners. Still smiling over that one... As for the proper Lotus sound, when I was at LOG 18 in Atlanta we went on a mountain drive (see the pic of the train of Loti in my owner's pictures). Somewhere along the route, Alistar McQueen (one of the guest speakers from Lotus Engineering) passed me as he was decelerating from somewhere above 100 in a new Esprit TT. It was brapping and popping and just sounding wonderfully PO'ed. THAT was a proper Lotus sound.

Mar 7, 2001 - 09:33 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Proper Lotus
Message: I've always preferred the REAL Elan; REALly fast, REALly comfortable, REALly well built, REALly well equipped, REALly refined design, and most importantly, REALiable enough to use as a daily driver._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 7, 2001 - 13:28 - From: charlie
Title: proper lotus
Message: the only proper lotus is KAR 210C (well except there are about 8 of 'em)

Mar 7, 2001 - 13:41 - From: Lance Johnson
Title: Manuals / CF parts
Message: I'm a little disturbed by the fact that everyone is willing to just illegally make copies of the Elan manuals. However, there are quite a few rumors going around that LCU is in the process of making their dealer version of the CD-ROM manuals available to the public. They need to remove some of the dealer-only information. Rumors are that the CD-ROM could be available very soon. However, these are all basically rumors from people talking to Dwayne and others at LCU. The CD-ROM should contain all of the Lotus manuals. Also, there was a few mentions of people wanting carbon-fiber interiors. A few of the Esprit owners have had it done by sending their dash pieces to a company to have them make carbon-fiber. I personally do not like the carbon-fiber interiors, but if someone is really interested, I can trace down the people that have done it and get the information.

Mar 7, 2001 - 14:04 - From: Rod
Title: Audio
Message: Ian (and anyone else ) did you make the sub enclosures yourself ? ( easy ? materials ? write up :-) ), also wonder what amp you choose ( I want something small ) and where you mounted it ?

Mar 7, 2001 - 14:19 - From: Doug
Title: Audio
Message: Well this is always a topic everyone has info and advice on. Rod, I have a nice amp with crossovers mounted behind the rear speaker box on the right and my 8" JL sub behind the left seat box. You can make a sub enclosure out of wood or fiberglass to hold the sub securely, but just be careful if you (or someone else) drill behind the left seat, as someone punctured their fuel tank accidentally this way before!! I have not had any amp cooling problems this way and they are mounted up off the carpet to avoid moisture problems. Having the sub fire into your seat is a nice set-up and I recommend it! Check out my seat warmer write-up as you can learn about the bonus relay and fuse in the area that could be used for something like an amp as well.

Mar 7, 2001 - 14:24 - From: Russell
Title: Audio
Message: Rod - Have a look at my car at Donington at the weekend - the guy who had it before me did some impressive stuff with the audio (well it sounds impressive to me but then again I'm hardly an audiophile) - still haven't found the amp (Alpine one) (haven't looked very hard though) done with the same size speaker holes but he's added some extra small speakers in the door (tweeters) and as far as I can tell upgraded the speakers (Sony) - Anyway you're welcome to have a poke around - I'll try to remember to put the manuals in giving all the tech info - he's even managed to ensure the digital display on the CD receiver (Alpine again) unit is in orange to match the car controls.

Mar 7, 2001 - 16:41 - From: Alan
Title: M100 v Classic Elan
Message: I've worked long and hard to have an M100 and 1970 S4 Elan and love them equally. Obviously the M100 is a better everyday car but the baby Elan still surprises plenty of modern cars and if properly maintained they are reliable. The M100 is almost perfect. Its fast, handles great, comfortable, stylish, decent boot, reliable, reasonable economy and pretty rare. I just wish it had the snickety gear shift and engine/exhaust note of the baby Elan. And finally, the sound systems on both my cars are pretty poor so I'll be wanting some advice at Donington!

Mar 7, 2001 - 16:43 - From: Rod
Title: Audio / Donington THIS weekend
Message: Ah, thanks Russell, will take you up on that kind offer of a look at your audio setup on Saturday. As I use mine as a second car and rather like listening to the exhaust note, audio has never figured high on my list of jobs to do. But I recently installed an amp / head unit and speakers in my other car and it was not as bad as I imagined. The Lotus offers challenges of space, plus I would like to try a sub. I am sure by looking at other cars this weekend I will work it out. On a related note, I have 11 confirmed M100's turning up on Saturday at Donington Services ( 10am ), however due to email fun and games I may have missed some replies etc - If anyone has not had an email back from me saying there place is confirmed or does NOT appear on this web page : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/Cars/Lotus_Elan_M100/Donington_2001/Attending/attending.html then please email me at lotus@thepitlane.com so I know to expect you.

Mar 7, 2001 - 16:46 - From: Rod
Title: Gear change / Exhaust Note
Message: Come and find me on Saturday Alan! I have Bill's short shift kit fitted and it has transformed the gear change into how it should have been. Its *very* direct, with very short travel between each change, although a little stiff - but it may just need more use. My exhaust note is not too bad either ( although don't think I really want to demonstrate that at the show ).

Mar 7, 2001 - 20:11 - From: will
Title: audio
Message: I replaced the rear speaker with a speaker box. the speaker is a 10". it sounds large on paper but it really isn't. i still have the same amount of leg room in the car. and a lot more sound. a whole lot more sound. i have a 300wt amp pushing the sub, and i just added a pair of separates in the front door. A 200 wt amp is pushing them. i wanted to go for more sound. but there is no more room in the car.

Mar 8, 2001 - 06:04 - From: Ian
Title: Sub Enclosures
Message: In answer to the question, I built the enclosures myself... there are some good guides on web pages with regards putting them together. They are only 3 litre volume but made out of 3/4inch MDF so are very rigid.. and quite heavy for their size. The only problem I have is with a tendency for dampness behind my seats so they have to be separated from the carpet by a water resistant layer (in my case a not so hi-tech tesco carrier bag serves the purpose for the time being) otherwise they draw water into the wood and soften it, eventually causing it to rot. The only really important thing when building a sealed enclosure is to make sure it is absolutely air-tight, so involves playing around with silicone sealant which can get a little messy.

Mar 8, 2001 - 06:06 - From: Ian
Title: almost forgot...
Message: in answer to the other question, I have a Soundstream Lil' Wonder Rubicon amp. Very physically small but high quality amp... there are only a couple of authorised dealers for them in the UK but if you are interested I can sort you some details.

Mar 8, 2001 - 09:31 - From: Steve
Title: M100 v Classic Elan
Message: Alan... For a small fee I wont tell all on this message board that you don't actually use your M100 now 'as an everyday' car. Long may my '92 M100 and '68 S3 live, and be driven regularly !

Mar 8, 2001 - 10:23 - From: Richard A Clifton
Title: M100 v Classic Elan
Message: Steve, can I play too? I'll match yours with a 1990 M100 & '67 S3 and raise you a 1967 +2.

Mar 8, 2001 - 16:43 - From: Doug
Title: Elan sounds
Message: I was thinking if you guys want to hear the true sound of the M100, just disconnect the downpipe. I guarantee you burbling, popping, and a raucous sound like a true race car--impressive from our little motor!! Will, how much fun does your system sound! Get some swivels on the speakers and I bet you can get some extra speed from facing them rearwards!

Mar 8, 2001 - 21:21 - From: Joel
Title: Elan with elan
Message: Alan, Richard, Steve -- just let me echo some of your words in comparing the two Elans. Although I don't think of my '67 S3 as a "baby" Elan, it has been and is a remarkable example of organic engineering and a valued family member for more than 30 years. With the exception of my former '64 S2 Super Seven (very original), no other sports car I have driven really comes close to the "wear-like-a-glove" balance and sheer performance you get from a well-prepared "classic" Elan. The M100 is certainly an impressive A-to-B car--and is even better with the short shift kit installed, as Rod says. The M100 also delivers a super combination of performance and reliability at a reasonable price, but somehow it misses a bit on the simplicity and elegant engineering fronts that characterize the earlier examples of the marque. Happy Lotusing, Joel.

Mar 9, 2001 - 07:51 - From: Alan
Title: Donington etc
Message: Last call for Donington for any Northerners to meet at Woodhall M1 services [just south of Sheffield] around 9am to leave prompt at 9.30am.Tops down unless its raining! Thanks Rod and Joel for the short-shift comments, I'll definitely be having a look at this. Did anything develop with the guy a while back looking for white instrument dials? Quite fancy that idea. Steve, thanks for spilling the beans about my 'non-everyday' M100'-its still done 14000 miles in the last 12 months which isn't bad [and nothing broke of course] Are you saying your S3 is an everyday car? In your dreams maybe....

Mar 9, 2001 - 09:04 - From: Rod
Title: Yet More Donington
Message: Just checked with Club Lotus and they are setting up for the show now ( so NOT cancelled due to F&M ). I have 12 confirmed M100's turning up at Donington Servives at 10am on Saturday, plus a few Elise and Exiges, anyone else is welcome to join us. More Information here : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/Cars/Lotus_Elan_M100/Donington_2001/Donington_2001_Invite/donington_2001_invite.html

Mar 9, 2001 - 10:51 - From: Edward
Title: Tranny Oil
Message: Does anyone have any experience with Neo Synthetic Oil. I'm thinking of changing the tranny oil, and could not find Redline MTL locally. A local race shop recommended Neo and said that it was their oil of choice for many NASCAR and F1 cars. This product is available in 20W50 oil, and they do have a website at www.neosyntheticoil.com 

Mar 9, 2001 - 11:18 - From: Pete.W
Title: Alan (white dials)
Message: Alan, regarding white dials for m100.I e-mailed simon who was enquiring about them, as I am looking for white dials for my wife's recently acquired elan myself. I have been in touch with a company called Fat kat motorsport here in the U.K. WWW.FATKAT.FREESERVE.CO.UK , who can make white dials for virtually any vehicle, check out their site, If enough of us enquire Im sure they will be able to help, and they do ship worldwide, they did ask me if I knew if the dials were a G.M. part and if so which car were they originally fitted to but I'm afraid I don't, any ideas?. Doug thanks for the tip regarding my underheating last month, replaced t-stat car now gets hot.

Mar 9, 2001 - 13:12 - From: Doug
Title: Neo Oil
Message: Ed, did you say you have 20-50 oil? The tranny needs 5-30 weight which also known as a different gear oil spec (75W-90) I think. Neo does list this gear oil on their site. Bill, do you know about this Neo oil for the Isuzu tranny?

Mar 9, 2001 - 15:21 - From: Edward
Title: Tranny Oil
Message: Doug, I guess I did pickup the wrong one...I will exchange it for the 75W90 oil. I hope to hear from Bill or someone who has some knowledge of Isuzu transmissions. If not, then I will see about getting Redline or Mobil 1. Thanks.

Mar 9, 2001 - 18:28 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Oil
Message: Avoid the gear oil, it is too thick to lubricate. I'm running 5W30. The chart shows that for climates that get below freezing. Redline MTL (Manual Transmission Lubricant) works well. A synthetic that doesn't have a lot of additives or detergents should work well as long as it matches the weight. Synthetics will leak more. The reason they lubricate better is because the particles are smaller. Little leaks get bigger with synthetic oils. On engine oil, Isuzu basically states not to use synthetic oils, and has said this for many years. No one has come up with a plausible reason or even a good excuse. I haven't seen anything about transmission oil though._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 9, 2001 - 18:34 - From: Phil
Title: Elan Colours
Message: Does anyone know how many of each colour (or color) the Elan was made in? I did see a post a while back about this, but I think it was only relating to US cars. I was looking for total production run figures. Phil.

Mar 9, 2001 - 18:48 - From: Rod
Title: Elan Colours
Message: This is the sort of thing I am sure Richard can help with but you can production run figures here : http://www.best.com/~gglotus/ggtech/m100prod.htm and you can see a breakdown of USA colours here : http://www.lotuselan.com/faq.html#Produced  Perhaps someone else can fill in the UK production run colours. You certainly don't see many black or while cars though. You could also take a look here : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/don2000sun/dcmalbum.htm  as I took a picture of just about every M100 I could spot at the Donington show last year on the Sunday. Maybe that's enough cars to come up with some very simple guess of the colour split in the production run :-)

Mar 9, 2001 - 23:08 - From: Scott
Title: CV joint boots
Message: During the course of cleaning up seldom-seen areas of my "new" Elan I've noticed that the CV joint boots are split (one reason there's so much to clean up!). Lacking a shop manual, I wonder if anyone has a write-up on the replacement procedure? Also, is there supposed to be some sort of dust cap on the front hub? Thanks, all.

Mar 9, 2001 - 23:59 - From: Doug
Title: CV boot / oils
Message: Scott, I think it was Jamie who replaced his CV boots with some neat kind of boot that didn't require the axle to come off--this way you just slap some grease in the new boot and install it. Bill, the MTL is quoted as "70W80 GL-4 gear oil (SAE 5W30/10W30 engine oil viscosity)"--the gear oils have their own weight system, but yes I did use Mobil One 5W-30 engine oil the first time around prior to the MTL--definitely get a comparable weight, Ed.

Mar 10, 2001 - 14:07 - From: Rod
Title: Donington Show Report
Message: Phew, just got home, what a great day ! Much better turn out than I could have ever imagined. We had at least 18 M100's turn out for the pre-show meeting, and it was raining and some people had traveled miles, with others "up at 7am with a hangover" to clean the car ! I am just uploading pictures now to : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/Cars/Lotus_Elan_M100/Donington_2001/Show_Report_Pictures/show_report_pictures.html Thanks to all those that made the effort to turn up, it was only a success due to the number of M100's that turned up.

Mar 10, 2001 - 14:54 - From: Mark
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Can anyone help? My boost gauge isn't working - originally the garage thought it was a faulty gauge but have now tracked it down to a wiring fault. They cannot get a wiring diagram from Lotus for some reason - has anyone had the same problem or know where I can get my hands on some wiring schematics for my garage to take a look at?

Mar 10, 2001 - 18:11 - From: Rod
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Mark, have you checked the connections on the sender unit for the gauge ? Open the bonnet and you will see it over on the very left hand side of the engine bay. Suggest you check the connections. There are a couple of wires, and a rubber tube that connects to it. From memory its orange in colour too. If you get really stuck finding it, then say so and I am sure someone can explain better than me, or I will sort of a picture and make it available on the internet somewhere.

Mar 10, 2001 - 18:35 - From: Guillermo
Title: white dials
Message: I am not completely sure, but I think the dials are Opel Calibra parts. German magazines were complaining at the presentation of the M100 that Lotus used the Opel dials without any modification ... "nothing special inside" (never mind, I like it the way it is ... and it works !)

Mar 10, 2001 - 18:52 - From: Mark
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Rod - checked what I think is the sender unit (orange rubber thing on the left of the engine bay as you described) and connections seem fine. When I was under there I also noticed a black wire with a blue connector on the right of the engine bay which was not connected to anything. Anyone know if this should be connected up to something?

Mar 10, 2001 - 19:07 - From: Rod
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Mark, its dark/wet/late here so no point in me going out and looking at my car, however Yes the orange thing is what I was talking about - did you trace the rubber pipe to where it connects the other end ? You could also try and get a multimeter on the wires that go from the sender to the gauge and check for continuity. As for unconnected wires, I am pretty sure there are a few on mine too. You sure its not the actual gauge that has packed up ?

Mar 10, 2001 - 19:44 - From: Doug
Title: Boost Sensor
Message: Mark, the sensor unit mounts to the engine bay wall with two screws. These can vibrate loose with time and make the gauge go wild. The reason is the bottom screw is used to hold the black/ground wire coming out of the side area--when this ground is loose, the gauge will go wild. There is only one more wire which is greenish and goes to one of the poles of the sensor unit, which reads the boost. Be sure the black wire connector is screwed onto one of the screws at the base of the sensor unit to properly ground the gauge--I bet this is your problem!

Mar 10, 2001 - 20:00 - From: Doug
Title: DONINGTON !!
Message: Rod, again awesome pictures, and I bet you still have more to put up when you get up!! I noticed the Elan NA pix, and whose Elan is the maroon (silk red?) one? That color looks nice! I put a link to Rod's Donington area on the Front Page of the site. Any Elan news at the meet?

Mar 11, 2001 - 07:59 - From: Rod
Title: Donington
Message: The NA was Carl W's, in amazing condition, perfect bodywork and he was one of the many that were up early to polish the car. Also notice the NA had the original style headlight system, that Lotus quickly changed, so his must be one of the very first cars off the production line. All the pictures I took are available now.

Mar 11, 2001 - 13:47 - From: David Stevens
Title: Voltage Drop Elan 1995 S2
Message: For the last 6 months my Elan looses 0.1v per day if left unused . Have isolated alarm , alternator, starter and now think it may be the headlamp lighting circuit . Has anybody had similar problem ?

Mar 11, 2001 - 14:22 - From: Mark
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Thanks for the tips - I'll go and have a look later on a try out your suggestions. Rod, it is definitely not the boost gauge that has gone (as the garage originally thought) - the garage bought a brand new one and put it in and it was still dead so they put the old one on the bench and it is working fine so it is definitely something screwy with the wiring or something else. Doug, I would hope that the screws aren't loose as I have just had all the front panels on the car replaced (after I stupidly ran into someone pulling off a halt sign - I'd had the car less than three weeks!!) so I would hope that as everything has just been reassembled all screws etc. should be tight - but you never know - I'll check this as well - thanks. Also it is not the gauge going wild as such - when you turn on the ignition the needle goes off the scale and stays there.

Mar 11, 2001 - 14:50 - From: Doug
Title: Boost gauge
Message: Mark, just be sure there IS a black wire connected to the grounding base of the gauge. The symptom of a "loose" ground wire is the needle too high; I guess I could disconnect mine and see what happens with NO ground wire, but I bet the needle would go all the way up like you say.

Mar 11, 2001 - 14:56 - From: Russell
Title: Donington Pictures
Message: Some more pictures from the meet Yesterday are now up at http://freespace.virgin.net/russell.pinder/Donnington01/index.html . One or two different perspectives to Rods but nowhere as many ! Great Day - was really good to meet so many other owners and see all the Elans together.

Mar 11, 2001 - 17:01 - From: Mark
Title: Boost Sensor
Message: Rod, Doug - now I am confused!!! I have checked the sensor unit and as you say there is a rubber tube which looks fine - it is connected at one end to the sensor unit and at the other to the engine. The two wires you mentioned Doug are connected as follows: the green one is connected to one of the poles on the left hand side of the unit and then disappears down a rubber grommet. The black wire is connected to the other pole on the sensor unit and is taped to the green wire and then disappears down the same grommet. The screws holding the sensor to the engine bay are both tight but neither has a wire connected to it. Any ideas?

Mar 11, 2001 - 17:34 - From: Paul Dennis
Title: Donington
Message: Just another note about Donington to say how much I enjoyed it, and how good it was to talk elans to so many owners, well done Rod

Mar 11, 2001 - 18:41 - From: Andy Y
Title: Gauge
Message: It's been a while guys...anyhow, no need to disconn. your sensor ground Doug, as that's the symptoms of no ref. ground. Mark, if think you're missing a ground -- Start your car and w/ a small length of wire, have a helper hold the stripped ends of the wire to both the bracket of the sensor and the other to the engine block -- Check the gauge and if it goes to zero, that's your problem. Just crimp on a ring terminal to both ends and ground it! As for audio, I've finally decided to go for subs in the trunk w/o losing space. 1st have to minimize the size of the windshield washer resv. (perhaps a empty 20oz. h2o bottle) and remove the power ant in anticipation of fabricating 2 sep enclosures in each cavity of the unused portions of the trunk. It's quite roomy in there; can't decide on either 10's or 12's...yeah, I'm greedy even though I preach that less is more! I decided to go for a clean look w/o the power antenna since I'm going to paint the car -- it's just a matter of filling the hole w/ some fiberglass/resin/filler. If you're wondering about reception, it's a fiberglass shell, so an inboard antenna (aerial, for you UK guys) will suffice. It's also a blessing to have the FB shell w/ my GPS based navgtn unit -- I can lay the rec ant. anywhere in the trunk and it p/u's just fine.

Mar 11, 2001 - 22:31 - From: Scott
Title: Driver side wiper blade
Message: Living here in rural Pennsylvania, my Elan is the only Elan I have seen up close. So, I need my fellow owners to chime in. My driver side wiper blade, when at rest, extends below the windscreen. About 2 inches of the blade does not sit on the screen. When the blades are engaged, the whole range of motion does not leave the screen (luckily) and works as expected. Does anyone else out there see this on their Elan? If so, did you leave it or fix it? I half think that the wiper blade is too long (you never know what the PO (previous owner) did to replace worn out parts). Thanks for any input. -Scott

Mar 12, 2001 - 05:44 - From: Duncan Lamb
Title: Holy Cow!
Message: I seem to remember a few weeks back, there was a bit of debate about the real maximum speed of the M100. Having fitted an MBC, dump valve etc etc I had sworn that I would never actually use the full potential of the modifications to travel at ridiculous speeds on the public roads. However, yesterday I was really annoyed with my girlfriend, and for some reason took out my annoyance on a long straight stretch of the A11. Despite being inclined slightly uphill, I reached an indicated speed of 155, and it was still accelerating! Only my rapid approach to the rear of the only other car for miles forced me to return to more normal speeds. Still, it left me very impressed, and wondering just how fast other M100 owners have got their pride and joy to go? Any takers for the M100 speed record? Not that I endorse for one moment ever traveling above the national speed limit. Or taking out your stress on the road!

Mar 12, 2001 - 08:40 - From: Dave M.
Title: a tease
Message: We had a dry and sunny but cold day this weekend so I thought I'd give the Elan a warm-up to get the fluids moving. It hadn't been run in about 2 months, but started on the first crank (I had disconnected the battery, by the way - it wasn't a miracle). After shoveling the remaining snow away from the garage door, my son and I putzed around the neighborhood (insurance is off until next month - couldn't hit the main roads) for a bit to get it good and warm. Man, did I miss the car. The smell, the sounds, everything! Sometimes I hate winter. I also have a post-tax season present ordered from Bill. Some goodies to make me love the car even more. One is the underdrive pulley on which I'll do a write-up in about a month or so when I can install it. I'm putting it on first before the other engine mods to test what improvement it actually makes. I've thought of a few tests (35-70mph 4th gear acceleration, for example) to run, but then thought of getting a G-Tech to really test it. Has anyone used the G-Tech? I've heard as long as your input is accurate, it's a pretty decent little unit, but wanted some input before I got one. Meanwhile I'm living vicariously through all of you until next month! Loved the Donington pics...

Mar 12, 2001 - 08:44 - From: Ian H
Title: Help desperately required
Message: On the way back from the Lotus show, I had car troubles. After pulling away from a set of light I changed into second and the car started spluttering and seems to be just running on 3 or or even 2 cylinders. I have replaced the spark plugs but do not know where to go next apart from a garage (which i don't like doing). There is no engine warning light on so I am assuming if it was the dreaded CAM angle sensor this would come on? The engine will rev OK and the turbo still kicks in but there is a massive loss of power and the engine is far from smooth. Any help would be well received. I have recently had a new exhaust could this effect it if it was restricting air flow of something? Cheers Ian.

Mar 12, 2001 - 14:27 - From: NeilT
Title: Donington
Message: Had a great day out at the weekend. Bought some EBC grooved discs and pads. Can someone tell me how much better my brakes will be when they are on. Is it worth buying some braided brake pipes? They look pricey! Doug mine is the silk red Elan. Glad you liked the colour.

Mar 12, 2001 - 17:28 - From: Alan
Title: More Donington
Message: Thanks Rod and Russell for the pics of my car. I'm really sorry now I didn't join you all at the services first. Will have to do both days next year to fit everything in. Rod, seeing you did such a good job of organising it can you do something similar at one of the big motor events this summer please? Neil, really like the colour of your car. Did you get in in West Yorkshire? I checked out a nice one around 15 months ago but by the time I got organised it had gone. Anyone in the north fitted the gearshift mod? Its a long way to Swindon to check out Rod's.

Mar 12, 2001 - 19:17 - From: Doug
Title: stuff !
Message: Mark, your gauge sensor has definitely been re-wired wrong after your car was fixed! Move the black wire to one of the screws at the base of your sensor and it will be fixed--that was easy--no charge this time, okay! Scott the blades can be adjusted to sit where you wish--simply pull straight off the plastic cover at the base of the arm to reveal the attaching nut--you can remove this and then place the resting position of the blade where you like. I had the wipers of my car for a long time last year when I cleaned and repainted them and think the car looks much smarter without them. I could theoretically take them off about 10 months each year here in sunny SoCal! ;-) Duncan, sounds like you and Charlie will have to have a race some time to see who is the "real" crazy Brit!! I'm sure the speedo inaccuracy helped your speed as I believe we have done the gearing calculation with the redline last year and got a max speed of about 10 MPH lower--that is with stock wheels--perhaps you have some tundra tires in there?! Dave, I have a G-Tech and was impressed with its workings. It is worth the money if you want to get some figures. But, remember all the driver associated variables so that will put error into any comparison which is only small HP. An easy way to get your car's actual weight is to go to a truck stop scale and get them to weigh your car--they didn't even charge me when I explained why I wanted my car weighed! ;-) And those scales are certified accurate by the US Govt.

Mar 13, 2001 - 12:10 - From: Rod
Title: M100 Meetings - UK - Summer 2001
Message: Looks like there is demand for more meetings this year. Don't panic, nothing is going to happen immediately, however I am thinking about at least one meeting, and one track day. I am sure we can make this happen. Alan - how's things looking for another Lotus track day at Croft in the summer ? As for another meeting, I attended Trax 2000 last year, this was at Silverstone, and I joined the Lotus Carlton club. Maybe we could have our own M100 section. I will look into this, but am open to other suggestions. Guess it would be best to find another car event and we just join in with that. Richard - would there be any chance we could get a group of M100's together at Castle Combe ?

Mar 13, 2001 - 14:00 - From: NeilT
Title: Alan
Message: Nope, Alan I got the car from London. Saw it on the internet end of last year.

Mar 13, 2001 - 14:54 - From: Russell
Title: M100 - Meetings - Summer 2001
Message: Next trip out for me will be the Fish and Chip Run - see http://www.fishandchiprun.co.uk/fandc_home/new_runs/mikeclark/Fish%20and%20Chip%20Run%20-%20Hants%20n%20Wilts.htm Went on a similar run a couple of weeks ago which was a great day out. There were 4 elans, 4 esprits, one 340 and over 50 elise's so a few more Elans would be great (we tended to stick together as a sort of group within a group). Cheap entry into Beaulieu Motor Museum too. What about the Sportscar Show at the NEC on 28-29 April www.thesportscarshow.com looks like another one that most Elan Owners should have on their calendars. I'll be at the Club Lotus day at Castle Combe (End of May) as I have a place on the track ! - Turn up if you want to see an Elan being driven very slowly round castle combe :-)

Mar 13, 2001 - 23:40 - From: Andy Y
Title: Motor oil
Message: Learned something new tonight about engine oils. Had a guest speaker from Leading Edge lubricants @ an ASA meeting demonstrate the bearing wear test w/ many industry standard oils. Found out that Mobil 1 is better than Castrol Syntec on wear, based on equiv oils/wts, but the LE did much better than Mobil 1! Yeah, I'm a skeptic w/ a lot of things, but I'm am convinced! The guy was really cool about testing infomercial type products and they turned out not-all-that! Seems the worst oil he tested was a Honda OEM product; seized the bearing w/ only 2 weights (forgot what they call this machine for testing). Anyhow, they're local in Houston, so I'll give it a try and give ya my results. Check it out www.lelube.com

Mar 14, 2001 - 05:50 - From: Rod
Title: M100 - Meetings - Summer 2001
Message: Some great suggestions Russell - anyone else got any suggestions ? I might do the F&C run, as its local for me, however I think its a little too soon after the Donington meet for some people. Lets see what demand is like. Not sure I would be keen to leave my M100 in the NEC carpark myself, nor how we would meet up before the show. Castle Combe should be in everyone's diary according to Richard, however I have not been before, so again don't know if there is a sensible way to meet up.

Mar 14, 2001 - 06:06 - From: Mark
Title: Boost Gauge
Message: Sorted - thanks for all the help on this one guys - all seems okay now and so easy to fix as well!! This message board is a god send to me living on the Isle of Man as there are no official Lotus dealers over here. Thanks again.

Mar 14, 2001 - 10:20 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Carlisle, PA Car Show
Message: All this talk of shows and gatherings in England, I imagine you guys in the US might be getting a little jealous. The IsuzuWeb car club is attending the Carlisle Custom Compact Power Jam again this year on May 4-6, 2001. The IsuzuWeb is open to owners and enthusiasts of Isuzu cars, Storms, and Lotus Elan M100s, and we have a dozen or so Elan owners among the 500 members of the IsuzuWeb. One of your fellow Elan owners and IsuzuWeb member, Scott Aguilar attended the Carlisle show with us last year, and was awarded first place in the Other Exotic All class for his 1991 Lotus Elan M100 SE, as well as being the center of attention of over 3,000 show participants and 6,000+ spectators. I think Scott was getting hoarse from answering so many questions by the end of the first day and I don't think there was another car at the show that garnered more attention. We would like to expand on that experience this year and get a good solid half dozen or more Elans at this show and show the import community just what a real enthusiast automobile is, in multiples. There is information about the show at: http://www.isuzuweb.org/carlinfo.html , and the registration form is at: http://www.isuzuweb.org/carlreg.html . We are providing polo shirts with the IsuzuWeb logo embroidered on the front and back to the first 20 people to register for the show with the IsuzuWeb and have a deadline on reserving a shirt size of March 31, 2001 (after that, everyone wears extra large) and a final deadline for registration of April 6, 2001. You guys might enjoy taking a look at some of the Isuzu cars that share the same engine as the Elan. We will have several AWD Turbo cars, a couple drag race prepared FWD cars, and a 2.6 liter RWD Turbo Impulse. I hope we get a whole flock of Loti this year._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 14, 2001 - 11:26 - From: Scott
Title: come one, come all!
Message: I second Bills invite to get some more Elans at the Carlisle show. The exotic class was dominated by Porches (blah) and an NSX. The Elan was the only true exotic at the show. Carlisle, PA is right off the PA Turnpike, making for easy access from points east and west. Points north and south would first need to come in from interstates 81 or 83. The Isuzu group was fun to be with and we do have a lot in common. I plan to attend Friday and Saturday. Lets see if we can get some more representation there. Email me if you want to discuss this further. -Scott

Mar 14, 2001 - 12:26 - From: Rod
Title: Donington Parts
Message: Did anyone else notice the brand new M100 gearbox for sale at Donington. I was tempted, but it was too big to fit in the car. I have tracked down the seller and its still for sale. I wonder a) if anyone has had a gearbox problem b) if this is just an Isuzu part, and I might be able to get it cheaper from Isuzu ?

Mar 14, 2001 - 12:43 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Transmissions
Message: Two things about transmissions: First, Isuzu transmissions start at $2,000 USD. Second, the ratios for the Elan are unique to the Elan and not used in any other car, Isuzu or GM with that 76 mm transmission. I wish someone had a truck load of crated engines and transmissions over here, for stuff you really need, they are getting almost retail for used parts._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 14, 2001 - 13:06 - From: Steve P
Title: Gearbox/Transmission
Message: Rod, I went to the show two years ago and bought a brand new gearbox from Lotus, did they have a stand there this year? Thankfully I wasn't in the Elan, so I went home happily with a new box for £250. It's still sitting in my garage after two years, and no doubt I'll probably sell it with the car some day.....seemed like a good buy at the time! ;-)

Mar 14, 2001 - 15:01 - From: Russell
Title: Michelin Tyre Rip Off's
Message: Was looking through a colleague's rally (car) parts book today (he has an ex-works Lotus Sunbeam he's currently preparing to enter in historic rallies) and found a Historic/Road rally tyre which purports to be a copy of a Michelin MXX3 - available in about 6 different compounds from very sticky to not so sticky - all available for about £40 each. Does anyone know if the MXX3 (I assume it's the tread pattern that they've copied, but it should be possible to match the compound quite closely too) is in any way similar to the MXX2 originally specified for the Elan and which was supposed to suit the car so well. Or does anyone have any links or pictures of MMX2 tread patterns that I can compare with. Anyone come across or tried anything similar. I'll get the full details tomorrow and post a scanned in picture if anyone's interested.

Mar 14, 2001 - 15:27 - From: Duncan Lamb
Title: Tyres, Audio & Rattly Passenger Seat
Message: Russell, any help on tyres right now would be great. It looks like I'll need 3 new ones before my MOT (may as well get all 4), and my work's account and hence discount with Kwik Fit has ceased to be. Who's found what tyres to work for them, how much have they cost, where are the best deals, have we just stuck to the Michelin, or should I just give up and go the whole hog and get brand new wheels whilst I'm at it??? Bringing the audio situation back up, I have a Panasonic sub which is manufactured to mount inside the space-saver spare wheel, thus taking up no luggage space whatsoever. It comes with either a 100w built in amp, or as a 150w version with you finding the external amp. It's OK if space is at a premium, but it takes a lot to drive bass from the boot to through the fuel tank to the driver's compartment! Finally, my passenger's seat has started to rattle very annoyingly, it's just the back rest part that has a bit of play in it, and with no passenger and bumpy roads it's rattles all over the place. Anyone else had this problem? Any solutions, other than chucking the seat out? Thanks!

Mar 14, 2001 - 15:33 - From: Russell
Title: Tyres again
Message: Doh! a quick search has turned up the info I was looking for so I really needn't have wasted the bandwidth. Ignore the last message - next time I'll do the search first - sorry.

Mar 14, 2001 - 18:50 - From: Rod
Title: Gearbox
Message: The Gearbox this year was £300 I believe, looked brand new Steve, so your is getting more valuable ! I missed the engines and other stuff lotus were selling a few years ago. I believe all those engines and gearboxes sold, although it looks like a few dealers and now selling them on as they need the space. Would the different gear ratios also mean Lotus made the gearbox and transmission stronger for the Elan Bill ? Perhaps the Isuzu unit was not up to the job ?

Mar 14, 2001 - 19:51 - From: George
Title: boost control
Message: After adjusting the throttle cable, I found that the MBC need a little adjustment as well. The constant over boosting was getting on my nerves. Anyway, I forgot which direction to turn was to "decrease boost." So, after checking in the MBC section, I found that it was "counter-clock" wise. Well, that didn't work... So, I adjusted the MBC clock wise, and that decreased the boost. My question is, am I the only one? Or is it that the direction is incorrect?

Mar 14, 2001 - 21:07 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Different, not better
Message: Lotus selected different ratios for the gears, not better, just different. The 76 mm transmission has 384 different possible gear ratio combinations (based on the ratios I have specs for and I know GM is using some ratios they haven't printed any specs for). Lotus picked a couple of ratios that just aren't used in any other cars, taller ones. Quite frankly, for racing, shorter ratios that are closer together are better, because they keep the engine wound out into the RPM range that it makes more power for faster acceleration. Then again, shorter gears men a lower top speed. Not better, (or worse), just different. The thing is that if you want the car like it was when it came off the assembly line, you have to go with the Lotus part._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 15, 2001 - 03:49 - From: Rod
Title: Gearbox
Message: Thanks, as always, Bill, would rather keep the "Lotus" ratios, but nice to know that if ever we cannot get hold of Lotus gearbox's we might be able to do something with an Isuzu unit.

Mar 15, 2001 - 04:59 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: Castle Combe
Message: I'd also like to thank Rod for his organising of the Donington meet and thank everyone else who turned up and let me have their cars details for the unofficial M100 Register. Castle Combe track day and general get together day this year is on Saturday 26th May. The meet is very similar to Donington but without the exhibition hall although there are traders there. The parking is on grass, there is a bar and food is available. And whilst having your picnic (or whatever) you can watch Lotus cars on the track. There is also a concours that you can enter. The nearby village of Castle Combe is very attractive and was used to film Dr Dolittle some years ago. For me it's a nice drive down through the Cotswolds. I believe that it is possible to camp for free on the Friday night - this is something that I haven't as yet tried. The last couple of years the weather hasn't been kind on that weekend but I have been when it was hot and sunny all day. I think the trick to reserving a section for M100's is for someone to turn up fairly early and reserve it using bollards and tape and then ensure that no one else parks there. Do we have anyone who lives near Castle Combe that could do this?

Mar 15, 2001 - 07:07 - From: Steve
Title: Electronic Boost Controllers
Message: Has anyone fitted an electronic controller rather than the MBC ? From my limited knowledge this would give you different preset levels to change, ie normal and nuts ! seems it may be an idea too reduce engine wear and fuel consumption for 95% of the time, offsets the extra cost in getting it too. The HKS one has a overtake button as well :-] Anyone tried one in any car ?

Mar 15, 2001 - 11:47 - From: Kev
Title: Tyres - UK
Message: I got a pair 205/50 R15 Michelin tyres from costco fitted and balanced for £62 each inc. You have to be a member though (£20 per year I think).

Mar 15, 2001 - 13:16 - From: peter bentley
Title: Base colour
Message: Netties some help please. What was the base colour of our fine machines before spraying ??? when i did the factory tour when i bought my elise all the cars were a sort of pink before going to be sprayed. Is it the same for our Élans I wonder, as in places, namely inside the doors my car has what looks like red paint although not a lotus red here and there or do you think mine has been munched and repaired ??

Mar 15, 2001 - 13:22 - From: Will
Title: Turbo Upgrade
Message: I would like to say sorry for not posting this earlier. But after a little prompting from Doug. I will tell you all now. I got a greddy T3/T4 turbo upgrade, a blitz boost controller, a piggyback computer, new spark plugs, new wires, and an HKS intake. all for the grand total of $2800. It is an independent shop here that did it. the original shop was a little busy, and their best mechanics were in Las Vegas at the time for an import drag shootout. so i decided to go with these guys. they are really good and efficient. they cleared their schedule for my car. of course i had a little worry. i dropped my car off on a friday morning. it was complete on saturday for pick up. and as soon as i left the gas station. i went looking for the first mustang or camaro i could find. it was a great shot in the arm. now i really love the car. i have a friend that has a civic with an integra type r engine from japan. he used to kill me in the quarter mile, well not kill me. but he would win. now it is a different world. I did however bite off more than i could chew. all i can say is Z06. I know him and he knows me.

Mar 15, 2001 - 15:00 - From: Rod
Title: EBC
Message: I considered an electronic boost controller, but there are rather expensive, and when I looked into it more I found they are labour intensive to setup, so there is additional costs in getting someone that understands these things to calibrate it. I did find one place in the UK that would do it - shout if you are still interested and I will try and dig out more details.

Mar 15, 2001 - 15:16 - From: Will
Title: OOOOps
Message: I forgot to mention that I need a Quaife bad. I mean really bad. Really, really bad.

Mar 15, 2001 - 15:38 - From: Doug
Title: stuff
Message: Steve, I agree with Rod that the EBC is a nice product but is expensive and requires a good shop to install and a lot of driver time to program effectively. Seamus had an EBC in his Elan and I think he never had enough time (a lot!) to fully program the boost curves. The increased fuel use and boost remember is ONLY when you floor it and actually use the boost, so the other 90+% of the time the fuel consumption should be the same as normal. Also I believe my MBC works as well as Seamus' EBC ever did so you would only have a minor difference in boost response--that is aside from the switchable curve from "normal" to "hell" that you mentioned! Peter, I too agree as I have spotted small patches of pinkish where the paint has scraped off the bottom of my car--what a funny primer color! Will, I am glad I have you on my side about the Elan in need of the Quaife after upping the boost--you must be well over the edge of traction that I am on now! What boost max are you running? I would think you should be only a car length behind that Z06 if you get the Quaife installed too.

Mar 15, 2001 - 16:03 - From: Joe S.
Title: More Oil ????
Message: Please let me clear up some confusion, and while I'm only one persons opinion, I do have 15 years in the Lubricant Industry working for some of the best selling and quality suppliers of 10w-30 motor oil. I'm ASTM certified with a degree in Chem Eng. so please listen. 1) Bill's message on oil particles for synthetics being smaller is just the opposite. Synthetics have longer chains, hence their stronger under heavy loads, and do not shear as easy providing better lubrication. 2) If anyone wants to see a Viscosity Equivalent Chart (measure the vis of motor and gear oils) - one would wee that a SAE 30wt Motor oil and a SAE 85w gear oil are so close in comparison there is very little difference. The reason the number changes in gear oils is because of the different additives used and the SAE does not want the consumer to be confused. Where you have to be a little concerned is on 80/85-140 as the high number is the vis at 210 degrees (as with motor oil) so an 80w-90 has the high end temp. vis as a 10-30 or 10w-40 - close enough - Believe it or not !!!!!!! 3) Please be careful with bearing tests that show wear. There are few applications in a motor that have that type of pressure, and common chlorine bleach will beat all oils - hands down. There are huge differences with sliding coefficients and high pressure ones. 4) Years ago synthetics did leak more - the base oils had an affinity for shrinking seals, well today, there are at least 4 types of synthetic base stocks (and many combinations of the 4) and these new formulas do not leak as in the past. Hope that helps, and I'd love any questions concerning your Elan and motor/ gear oil. Synthetics Rule !!!!!! Joe S.

Mar 15, 2001 - 16:39 - From: Rod
Title: Quaife - Bill ?
Message: I believe Bill can sort you out with an LSD Will - Check Bills web pages, I am 99% sure he has one listed for the Elan.

Mar 15, 2001 - 17:16 - From: Dean
Title: LOG 21 Get Together
Message: Is there any interest in a M100 forum at upcoming Lotus Owners Gathering LOG 21 (August 24-26, 2001 in Central Massachusetts)? Sure it’s a long ways away, but the planning is currently being finalized. If there is enough interest I would be willing to organize an Elan forum/panel discussion/etc. I know of 4 M100's that will be attendance and 7 more within 200 miles of the event.

Mar 15, 2001 - 17:54 - From: Bill Luton
Title: diff
Message: Sole importer and distributor, check: http://www.isuzuperformance.com/bills/drivdiff.html#quaife _ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 15, 2001 - 21:33 - From: Ben
Title: KPH to MPH Speedo
Message: Hello all, I've contacted some of you directly in the past and been very helpful. I'm wondering if someone can answer my question. I would like to change the speedo from KPH to MPH (either a new replacement, recalibrate it to be MPH, or just get a new KPH w/ MPH face). The car only has a KPH reading on it. Can someone shed some info regarding this, or direct me to a "speedo shop" that could help out. Does anyone know if this is a problem with California DMV registration? Thanks Very Much. -Ben

Mar 15, 2001 - 21:40 - From: Nebor
Title: gearbox and clutch
Message: Hi everyone. This site was recommended to me by a friend and would like to post a question. I'm a new owner of the Elan and the car's gear/shifter I purchased seemed "rubbery" -it's kind of loose when engaged. Is this normal? Also, I would like to find out if the '91 Elan's clutch is cable or hydraulic Also any idea how long a clutch last (roughly) after a new replacement. Regards -Nebor

Mar 16, 2001 - 04:15 - From: jeremy
Title: map error
Message: Help. What faults on my car cause the engine to cut at about 5,500 revs and light the warning light with a map sensor code?

Mar 16, 2001 - 10:03 - From: Pete W
Title: Elans for sale
Message: If anybody's looking for an M100 IN THE U.K., there are 41 of them advertised on the autotrader's web site this week ( www.autotrader.co.uk ) ,should be something for every one there.

Mar 16, 2001 - 10:49 - From: Rod
Title: Gearbox and Clutch
Message: The standard gear shift on the 1990's Elan is not exactly sporty and that may explain the bad "feel". Another thing is that there are two cables that connect the gear lever to the actual gearbox selectors. On early cars these broke ( one end was plastic ) within the first 40k miles/2 years, and should have been replaced by a new Lotus design for the cables, or some people replace with Isuzu cables. So your cables may be on the way out, or need adjusting. Perhaps see if you can try a couple of other Elans to see if yours is the same ( although I am surprised that you didn't test drive a few Elans ? ). If you find it is just the way the car was designed, then there is a modification to get a much more positive and short shift. Read around Doug's web site and look for references to Bill's Short Shift Kit - I have it installed and am very happy with it.

Mar 16, 2001 - 13:53 - From: Will
Title: stuff
Message: The quaife is definitely needed. and in regards to speed. The Elan normal set up is light speed, with just a EBC/MBC you're approaching ridiculous speed, with twice the horsepower it's like ludicrous speed.

Mar 16, 2001 - 18:11 - From: George
Title: gear box and clutch
Message: Nebor, I agree 100% with Rod's opinion on the shift feel. Check your cables, it's the best bet. Regarding clutch, I can say that after 48,000 miles of aggressive driving, it's still going like the energizer bunny. My mechanic did adjust the clutch for me once though. The clutch on the Elan lasts surprising long... Back then, I used to replace the clutch on my previous cars around 30,000 miles every time. If I remember correctly, wasn't there someone that had the clutch lasted more than 160,000 miles on his Elan?

Mar 16, 2001 - 19:27 - From: Barry Berman
Title: Rear Pads/Rotors?
Message: Well, after 70,000 miles it's time for rear pads/rotors for me. Surprisingly I was quoted a price that was more than front pads/rotors at the Lotus Dealer in Redwood City. Anybody find a comparable clone? Or should I break down and spend the $1000 to get new pads/rotors. Barry.

Mar 17, 2001 - 04:06 - From: Nebor
Title: Re: gearbox and clutch
Message: Thanks Rod and George for your input. I'll take your advise and let you know I find out. Nebor

Mar 17, 2001 - 08:59 - From: Steve
Title: Rod
Message: Rod, would appreciate any details you have on the EBC, I'd like to check it out more before deciding what route to take.

Mar 17, 2001 - 12:25 - From: Paul Dennis
Title: Clutch, gearbox
Message: Nebor, George is quite right saying that the clutch will last I changed mine myself (not easy but possible!) after 140000 miles and the friction plate still had plenty of life left in it, it was the tabs on the cover plate that had broken. Rod Did you get the gearbox you mentioned, I did also consider buying spare gearboxes and engines but thought that if either of them ever fail it should be possible to get them rebuilt plus they seem to be so tough that they may last to well beyond 200,000?

Mar 17, 2001 - 12:35 - From: Rod
Title: EBC - Steve
Message: I studied the information on the HKS product range, you can start here to read about the products available : http://www.hksusa.com/html/boostcontrollers.htm  As its a USA company I finally found a UK dealer whose web site is here : http://www.tdi-plc.com/  I chatted with them a couple of times, and they did say good things about the HKS products, however they did warn me that you have to add on costs for setting the EVC up. This could easily start running into a couple of hundred pounds. However here are comments from an old friend of this BBS. . "Aside from being able to adjust the boost level while driving, and knowing what you real manifold pressures are in beautiful realtime, my experience is that it vastly improves turbo response, and in general helps to reduce the stress on the whole system. I would never go back to a random, mechanical valve. I like to always know what the absolute pressures are, and to know that the box will limit them automatically. This is of paramount importance when you are pushing a boost limit. In my other car, where I run 22-25lbs, almost 2bar, it would be stupid to use a manual controller. In the Elan, where the ECU map only goes so far (1.1bar?? I don't remember) it's not so critical for safety."- S.B, the man with big wheels ! SB had an EVC IV fitted plus fuel regulator to his Elan, by TopEnd Performance. We did have some concerns in the past that we think that the Elan uses a pulse for the injectors that is backwards from normal and this is why some other brand EBCs don't work with the Elan. However looks like the HKS one does work ok. To balance the argument a little here is some advice from a chap I know and trust in the UK. . "The electronic boost controller is basically uses PWM to control a solenoid valve to do the bleeding. Some of them are closed loop, with a dedicated pressure sensor; more of them aren't. The benefits over an MBC are little or nothing. I was considering one, but it's just not worth it. Give me one example of when you'd want to turn the maximum boost *down*. Mine's been set at where I left it for well over 18 months now. Never touch it." So, someone that has one fitted thinks its great anyone else I have spoken to thinks 500ukp+ is a lot of money for little benefit. Happy researching, and do keep us all informed how you get on.

Mar 17, 2001 - 12:45 - From: Rod
Title: Gearbox
Message: In the end I didn't get the gearbox, just in the process of moving house, so no where to store it.

Mar 17, 2001 - 14:20 - From: Jeff Carroll
Title: Windshield side moldings
Message: I'm having to replace my windshield on my M100. I was called & was told the side windshield moldings were starting to crack. The Lotus dealer here in Houston said they are no longer available. Does any one know where I can get replacements? Thanks..

Mar 17, 2001 - 20:31 - From: Tony V
Title: White M100 on Ebay
Message: Did anybody else see the White M100 on Ebay....In NW PA...went for $13,308...only 40K miles Does anybody have a history on the car...just curious why it went so cheap..at least it seemed cheap to me..about 5K under what I thought it would bring..

Mar 18, 2001 - 03:11 - From: Doug
Title: Upgrades !!
Message: Hi all, just finished a new page for the site! It details most all the common upgrades for Elan performance and give comparisons between them in various categories. Check it out at www.LotusElanCentral.com/upgradecomp.htm !!

You can send me emails personally for input/suggestions about this page or any other on the site.

Mar 18, 2001 - 07:35 - From: Geraint
Title: Wash and Brush Up
Message: Can any one help my poor 91 SE Turbo - the gel coat is coming off in sheets and the roof seals are shot to pieces. Has anyone had a similar problem and if so, what's the best/cheapest fix?

Mar 18, 2001 - 11:38 - From: Barry Berman
Title: Re: Wash and Brush Up
Message: Gel, Coat? Do you mean the clear coat of paint? I don't know any way to get that back besides repainting the car. As for the roof seals, they've never been perfect even when new. But I've found that as long as they are kept moist, with armor all or such product the seal is slightly better, and they seem healthier. Reminds me, it's clear here, time to wash the car;) Barry.

Mar 18, 2001 - 11:44 - From: Barry Berman
Title: Re: Upgrades
Message: Yeah, like the new page Doug. It boils everything down and guides people to more logical choices. Barry.

Mar 19, 2001 - 03:04 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Clutch and Clear Coat
Message: Nebor - the clutch is cable operated and the highest mileage car that I know about on its original clutch is 190K miles. Geraint - Clear coat problems seem to be becoming more prevalent. At Donington there were more cars with clear coat problems than I'd seen before and it appeared to be those that were left outside overnight. I don't know if heavy frosts or ice are to blame - anyone have any ideas?

Mar 19, 2001 - 03:07 - From: Phil D
Title: Wash and Brush up
Message: My 91 SE was also not looking too hot after someone decided to give it a go faster stripe with a set of keys. As the main gel paint was cracked in a couple of places anyway, the only real way to deal with this was a repaint and oven bake. Now looks like new. The bake (85 degrees C for 3 hours) also helped to dry the car out!! The car is a UK model in Black with A/C, so I am betting not too many other like that in Blighty!

Mar 19, 2001 - 03:22 - From: Matthew
Title: Wishbones !!
Message: Hi all, Having just replaced my brakes on my M100, I had the chance to have a good look at the underneath of the car on an hydraulic ramp and noticed that the wishbones are not looking too friendly !! I appreciate it is a 10 year old car but is it "normal" to expect this ? How long do they go on for as my car has only covered 29,000 miles. Depending on how long I keep the car I will no doubt get them replaced, can anyone give me any details, prices etc on where I can get them for the best price. Thanks for your help, Matthew - Colchester

Mar 19, 2001 - 05:20 - From: Ian H
Title: Gel coat, wishbones, coils.
Message: My car has been suffering from the gel coat problem for some time. The only remedy is a re-spray but I have been quoted between 2000 - 3000 UKP. Not sure if I will get any return on my investment. You can however prevent small cracks turning into massive flakes by using some lacquer spray very carefully on the effected areas to seal them. The wishbones do seem to have a tendency to rust away and mine actually rusted through leaving a hole the size of a golf ball. I had trouble getting a new one but Midas metalcraft are producing them and supplying the Lotus dealers. They are not cheap though so if yours are starting to go it is worth getting them off and having them treated. I had a problem with my car last week where it was only firing on 3 cylinders, I changed the sparks plug but as there is not distributor cap etc.., there was not a lot more to do so I took it to a garage. The Elan has 2 coils which drives 2 cylinders each, one of the terminals on the coil had packed up so I had to replace it £130UKP for a coil. I also replaced the HT leads. All in all it cost me £330 UKP of which £100 was labour. Thanks to Peter Smith who we ordered the coil off and when we fetched it it was for the NA version even though they had the engine no. etc. another day without my car. The coils have a GM part number stamped on them but the GM/Vauxhall dealers were far from helpful. Ian.

Mar 19, 2001 - 05:51 - From: Ian
Title: lacquer spray
Message: Where could I find a suitable lacquer spray and can you recommend any specific brands?

Mar 19, 2001 - 08:06 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: Coil
Message: Ian - What's the GM code on the coil and could you have repaired the terminal?

Mar 19, 2001 - 08:21 - From: Russell
Title: Fluids - which ones?
Message: Getting my Elan serviced to prep it up for an upcoming track day (Goodwood). I've got a really good mechanic sorted out but he's no real experience with Elans (He does prepare and race historic rally cars (2nd in British champs last year) so knows what he's about and only charges £25/hr)so I need some advice from you guys out there. First Brakes - I'm having these upgraded to EBC pads and discs with Goodrich braided hoses but what sort of fluid should I use given the intended occasional trackday use along with general recreational use (the car isn't an every day car). Mechanic suggests getting best road fluid (DOT5 something) but asked if it might be better to use a race fluid. Or should we be looking somewhere else completely? Secondly Oil - I know its 10W/30 but full synthetic or semi synthetic. Does the Isuzu lump benefit from synthetic? What do others recommend for trackday type use. Finally - Oil filter - genuine Lotus part or is there an alternative ? Thanks for any help

Mar 19, 2001 - 08:29 - From: Russell
Title: Resprays - oven or not?
Message: We went to the painting fibreglass seminar at Donington and the guy giving it was highly insistent that under no circumstances should fibreglass cars be oven baked to cure paintwork as he maintained that the heat would be likely to warp the panels - now he was an early (60's/70's) Elan specialist but wouldn't this be true (if correct) for the M100. Just wondering if anyone other than Phil had had a respray and whether they had the car in an oven or not?

Mar 19, 2001 - 10:19 - From: Rod
Title: More Gearbox
Message: Following on from the comments last week about gearbox's does anyone know what Isuzu box the Elan's is based on? This would be nice info to have for reference if we ever needed one (eg. crack the outer casing or lack of availability of Lotus item). Bill, you said something about 76mm is this what it's known as or is it one of the codes you refer to on your site (MK7/M79/MJ1) ?

Mar 19, 2001 - 10:22 - From: Rod
Title: Brake Fluid
Message: Russell, I have whatever Brake fluid my Lotus dealer puts in, and boiled it on a track session last year. I believe I have asked about brake fluid in the past and people suggest a DOT 5.1 type racing fluid ( higher boiling point ). There is information here on Doug's web site about what he uses, but I have not had chance to try and buy some here in the UK. If you find one I would like to know where as I need to replace mine and bleed the brakes.

Mar 19, 2001 - 10:25 - From: Ade
Title: Wishbones
Message: Matthew, the genuine lotus wishbones are £239.62 plus vat. each. They are now galvanized so will never need replacing .I got mine from Pat Thomas at Kelsport, who can also set your lotus steering geom as it should be set up, to the centre line of the chassis for a price of £99 .It is well worth it.

Mar 19, 2001 - 11:40 - From: Bill Luton
Title: transmission cases
Message: Mark Hughes commented in his book that Lotus had Isuzu to modify the case design because part of it was bumping into the substructure of the Elan. Using a Isuzu case isn't really an option if this is true._ _ _Swapping out internals if OEM parts become unavailable or to change the ratios around won't be a problem, but the cases would appear to be different._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 19, 2001 - 12:46 - From: Matthew
Title: EBC Brakes & Pads
Message: Ade, Thanks for your reply concerning wishbones, do you have a telephone number for Pat Thomas ? Also can anyone give me the correct part numbers for EBC discs and pads just so that I know I have been sent the correct stuff. Thanks a lot chaps.

Mar 19, 2001 - 13:31 - From: aaron
Title: parts
Message: hello aaron here as i have already said i am re building the whole front end of my car as a result i have picked up lots of spares eg doors rear bumper light clusters longrons under trays boot lides roof light pods suspension se e mail if any body needs parts including looms

Mar 19, 2001 - 16:34 - From: Jim Parker
Title: Windshield corner molding
Message: Help...please I was going along, top down and at a relatively excessive speed the windshield molding (black rubber) lifted. After slowing, while holding onto the molding, I pulled over and found that the "L" shaped corner piece was missing. Does anyone know where I might find this part. Could someone make an adhesive suggestion for the molding? I acquired this car 6 months ago and LOVE this thing..ah, the pain, the pleasure. Thanks in advance for the assist! Jim

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:02 - From: Barry Berman
Title: Re: L Shaped Corner Piece
Message: I don't believe it's a corner piece at all. It's part of the entire molding, only the supports slowly spread loosen up and eventually that piece is split creating a corner piece. I had my car repaired for that twice when under warranty. When I went to an owners group meeting, everybody's had theirs split. Wonder if those parts can even be ordered anymore? Barry.

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:07 - From: Phil
Title: Resprays-bake or not
Message: When I sent the car in originally, the bodyshop said that they would not bake the car, as it may have an effect on the panels and cause cracking. As it turned out, timing (lack of it) meant that the car did have to be baked. The panels are ok, but a couple of plastic parts elsewhere are not exactly fine, notably the centre console had cracked slightly where the electric mirror switch lives (easy enough to replace this, I hope) and the number plate plinth has cracked around one of the screwholes. The car is now garaged until sunnier weather (when it eventually arrives), so I will give the rest of the car a once over when it is not raining to make sure of no more nasties. The bodyshop did say that anything that went funny was down to me, as fibreglass is unpredictable sometimes. Having said that, the car looks 100 times better than before, and only highlights the other areas of the car that need doing (leather, wheels etc etc)... One area that I thought would suffer but didn't was the plastic rear screen, it went through the oven no problem. I did clean it a week before with Maguires plastic polish (wonderful stuff, made a milky screen like new in about 2 minutes), so maybe that helped.

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:12 - From: Scott
Title: windscreen finisher clip
Message: Jim, visit this link http://www.sportscarworld-lotus.com/elanm100.html. I replaced my molding last year. I was told to use "Goop" to attach the corners pieces to the car. They've been on there for a year and have not moved. Originally, I thought I was going to use 3M molding adhesive but its more for foam products. The Goop works. You can find it in automotive stores, they sell it for cars, plumbing, marine, etc. Hope this helps. -Scott

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:17 - From: Paul Dennis
Title: Resprays
Message: I also went to the lecture about resprays at Donington and as my bumper is in need of Paint I am tempted to have a go at doing it myself I will let you know how I get on, like Russell mentioned Mick Miller the lecturer did not recommend the use of Ovens, I think that I will get in contact with him concerning a few points that he bought up in the lecture and to confirm what he said and whether it applies to the later Elan

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:22 - From: Paul Dennis
Title: Goodwood
Message: Russell when are you going to goodwood as i would like to come along and watch, I'm sure you did tell me but I cant remember

Mar 19, 2001 - 18:55 - From: Doug
Title: Fluids, Bake, EBC parts, L-clip
Message: My fluid recs: I use the ATE superblue brake fluid (see brake write-up on the site)--it is DOT 4 with DOT 5 properties (this just means high boiling point). DO NOT use a DOT 5 fluid as this means it is "synthetic" and this is NOT compatible with the Elan's system!! This fluid is widely available and you should be able to get it through a performance store--I know all my BMWphile friends use it and it is sold thru BMW places a lot! Call around . . . For the motor I use reg 5W-30. I change it regularly so do not worry about it. You can use 15W-50 synthetic if you want to go that way. Oil filter: I use the Purolator PureOne (see oil filter info in the commonparts write-up), and you can likely use ANY that is designated for the 91 Isuzu Impulse turbo! Matthew, the EBC part numbers are listed in the "maintenance" area under "common parts"--also referenced through the brake write-up. Jim, the part may be "A100B0661F" which is is the "windscreen finisher clip."

Mar 19, 2001 - 19:35 - From: Russell
Title: Brake Fluid
Message: Found (got directed to) this web site - really useful stuff http://www.rpmnet.com/techart/fluid.shtml based on that and talking to a load of guys into racing/rallying cars I'm going for DOT 5.1 (strangely the same stuff as in my mountain bike brakes) - same composition as DOT 4 higher boiling point than DOT 5. Apparently race fluid needs very regular changes.

Mar 19, 2001 - 20:08 - From: Russell
Title: Oil Filter
Message: Was the Isuzu Impulse Turbo ever sold in UK? - just don't want to look terminally stupid in autoparts :-) I'll take the parts list from the site with me and hope they can match it up - Don't really want to pay Lotus money.

Mar 20, 2001 - 02:17 - From: Ben
Title: Re: White M100 on Ebay
Message: Tony, I did contact the dealer who was selling it before it was auctioned off. The car has a "NOT ACTUAL MILEAGE TITLE ISSUED" on CarFax and no previous history prior to 1997. The picture of the engine had some rust showing. But overall, I thought it wasn't so bad since he was asking around $15k to start with. If you're interested on the history of that car, email me. The seller claims the car was previously owned by Robert G. Bobo III, producer of the movie, The Matrix -- Hmmmm... I'm still looking for a good one out there and hoping to get one soon, but I'm taking my time. Any good leads anyone? Ben

Mar 20, 2001 - 04:04 - From: Rod
Title: Brake Fluid
Message: I noticed there is a "DOT 4 Only" sticker in the engine bay, but I guess in the late 80's DOT 5.1 was not available ? I wonder what would stop us using DOT 5.1 as it appears to have better properties. I don't mind doing fluid changes, if I get better performance.

Mar 20, 2001 - 05:23 - From: Ian H
Title: Oil Filter, Coils, Lacquer spray
Message: Russell you can get an oil filter from Halfords if you are in the UK, I went in there the other week and they have the Elan listed in the books on the shelf. I can dig out the part no. for you if required. I will have a look for the Coil part number tonight and let you all know, I now have one spare coil if anyone has any problems with theirs, As you have to buy the pair together. As for the lacquer spray I just got some standard stuff from Halfords (again) the best way is to spray a bit into the cap and use a touch up brush. It's not ideal but it stops the gel coat from cracking any further.

Mar 20, 2001 - 05:26 - From: Ian H
Title: Brake Fluid
Message: We have spoke about what brake fluid to use on a few occasion but I did not know that there was a problem with synthetic fluid. I have been using DOT4 synthetic fluid for a couple of years now and have had no problems at all. Doug, do you know why we should not use synthetic fluid? Should I be worried about anything? Thanks Ian.

Mar 20, 2001 - 08:07 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: Oil Filters
Message: Russell - If you go to the Golden Gate Lotus Club web page http://www.best.com/~gglotus/ and look in the Parts Interchange section for the M100 http://www.best.com/~gglotus/ggpart/m100xref.htm you will find the different oil filters available.

Mar 20, 2001 - 08:19 - From: Russell
Title: Brake Fluid
Message: AFAICT DOT5.1 is entirely consistent and compatible with DOT 4 fluid, but better - see http://www.rpmnet.com/techart/fluid.shtml  for full explanation. It's not synthetic (DOT 5 is), the above link explains why synthetic is not such a good idea. In fact AFAICT you could use DOT 5 if you flushed out all the non synthetic fluid but braking performance would suffer. DOT 5 doesn't affect paintwork and apparently is popular with those that show their cars rather than driving them.

Mar 20, 2001 - 12:38 - From: Dan
Title: LOG 21
Message: Dean - my wife & I will be bringing her M100 to LOG21. I know it's going to be somewhere in MA, your post stated 8/24-26, do you know the exact location? (I don't think the formal announcement has been made yet) Anyway, we'll be there!

Mar 20, 2001 - 13:36 - From: Simon Humphrey
Title: White dials
Message: Has anyone found out anything more about the dials?

Mar 20, 2001 - 15:28 - From: Doug
Title: DOT 5 clarification
Message: I meant to say that DOT 5 is "silicone based" fluid--but yes it is NOT compatible. It is not compatible with the rubber seals in the brake system! It is not mixable with DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 as it has different properties. I guess "DOT 5.1" is the new name for "DOT 4 fluids with DOT 5 (high) boiling point." The bottom line, just like engine oil, if you get decent fluid and take care of it and change it regularly then it will never matter! The Elan needs regular brake bleeds anyway as the caliper is so bad it gets hot and can boil the fluid and make bubbles. Luckily, it is easy to bleed though.

Mar 20, 2001 - 15:42 - From: Will
Title: Boost
Message: I forgot to add, i am running about 10 lbs. But now i think that i am suffering the effects of the dreaded CAS. I am having it changed anyway. My next project is changing the top from black to gray. and the interior from all black leather on the seats, to gray down the middle of the seats. and on the door panels.

Mar 21, 2001 - 03:04 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: Black M100's
Message: Phil D - I have 32 Black M100's listed in my register, of these 9 are Lotus prototypes and 3 are in the US which leaves 20 UK examples. I haven't included your car as I don't have the details. Richard Steele M100 Register

Mar 21, 2001 - 03:18 - From: Phil D
Title: Isuzu turbo in UK
Message: Russell, I believe the Impulse made it to the UK as the Piazza Turbo. Check out http://www.isuzuperformance.com/isupage/gallery/gimpjr.html  for piccies of the US impulse and Piazza, which looks like the UK car. Phil

Mar 21, 2001 - 07:49 - From: Dave M.
Title: LOG 21
Message: Dan, the LOG this year will be held in Worcester, Massachusetts. Check Lotus Limited's web site for hotel contact info @ www.lotuscarclub.org. Good to know we'll have a number of M100s there. I'm just bummed there's no track day. I was hoping for Lime Rock...

Mar 21, 2001 - 15:07 - From: charlie
Title: boost, white dials, kph, shutdown at rpms at 48000rpm
Message: i use white gauges in my car for the oil, turbo and volts. They are autometer phantoms, the original ones are VDOs. to replace the speedo gauge i was just going to fab a white dial face. I see no reason why the speedo etc would not be VDOs either. kph->mph do the same thing take out the face panel and make a new one with the conversions on it, i'd be more worried about why it only had kph on it in the first place, especially if headed for CA residence, perhaps its an import?.. Sluggish or rabbit hop performance is caused by the computer shutting down the turbo if there's anything wrong, the cam angle sensor will cause that, as will many other things. check the code given see Doug's writeup. if you aren't getting a warning light and the bulbs ok, then its something outside the realms of the EMC. as for a broken boost gauge, its a less than useless gauge anyway, change it for a real one, autometer sell many replacement types, that are pressure based that take about 30 mins to fit.

Mar 21, 2001 - 15:08 - From: charlie
Title: circuit diagrams
Message: circuit diagrams for the m100 are at http://www.charliex.net/Lotus/EN/es.html 

Mar 21, 2001 - 16:34 - From: aaron
Title: dials
Message: i have yellow backed dials in my elan on the main speedo turbo volts and oil pressure gauge they are from vaxhall

Mar 22, 2001 - 03:01 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: Rattlt Seat
Message: Mar 14, 2001 - 15:27 - From: Duncan Lamb Title: Tyres, Audio & Rattly Passenger Seat Duncan, I too have this, I've taken the seat out and the way they are manufactured is that at the fulcrum point of the seat back to seat base on each side there is a square pin going into a round tube that has the end formed into a square, if there's any tolerance in the fit of the tube the seat back will move. I couldn't work out how this could have occurred with time until the last time when I had my car serviced and the technician wanted to move the car a few feet without using the engine he used the back of the seat as the contact point at which to push. This I believe will stress the tube and introduce some play in the tube causing the seat back to move. As usual taking your car to a garage gives you more faults that what it went in with! The only solution that I can think of is to weld the tube to the square pin.

Mar 22, 2001 - 10:19 - From: peter
Title: Carbon bits have arrived !
Message: In my quest to jazz up the interior of the car i have had my door carpets replaced with carbon effect replacements, I will send pictures in as and when, comments welcome. The door handle scoops have also received the same treatment, here's hoping they look as i hoped !! By the way anyone got a second hand dash board lying around, I went to Donington and could only see a new one for £200...gulp

Mar 22, 2001 - 10:35 - From: Edward
Title: Power Windows
Message: I finally picked up the parts from Lotus to repair my power windows. Yesterday I spent 4 hours taking both doors apart and adjusting the windows. When I took the left door apart, I found some spacers and rubber things inside the door panel. After *many* hours, I figured out what the spacers were for, and the rubber "things"... The Elan Service notes had no references on these parts. My problem was a broken C clip so the write-up in this board only helped partly. I ordered 10 extra C clips, so I can repair at will. I do like the idea o replacing the carpet on doors with either carbon fiber or brushed aluminum. If anyone has done this, please give me some ideas..thanks.

Mar 22, 2001 - 13:10 - From: will
Title: door panels
Message: The brushed aluminum sounds great. I would like that info as well. even though i would have to run that past the wife.

Mar 22, 2001 - 14:11 - From: Thomas
Title: Wind screen
Message: Has anyone installed the wind screen from Serious Auto? I'm think about buying that but would like to know more info in it. Thanks!

Mar 22, 2001 - 14:14 - From: terry
Title: Sale Red Lotus Elan K Reg
Message: Red Lotus Elan SE Turbo 92 convertible for sale. 2 careful loving owners. Maintained same garage from new. Mileage 52,400 wonderful miles. Thatcham alarm system. Excellent condition. Only serious offers considered.

Mar 22, 2001 - 14:41 - From: aaron
Title: s2 wheel
Message: i am after an s2 wheel as i have changed the suspension on my se and have 3 s2 wheels and need a fourth if anyone could help cheers

Mar 22, 2001 - 14:44 - From: aaron
Title: tyres
Message: just a quick one are eagle f1 suitable for the elan i have an se with s2 suspension and can get 4 brand new f1s for 280 uk pounds

Mar 22, 2001 - 23:06 - From: Edward
Title: Panels
Message: I found a source for carbon fiber and brushed aluminum panels. The company is called Dashboards Plus and they have a website at www.dashboardsplus.com . I spoke to the and they said that with measurements and pictures, they can design panels for any car. More later.

Mar 22, 2001 - 23:15 - From: Edward
Title: 0 to 60 times
Message: The Elan has a 0 to 60 time of 6.7 sec w/o any improvement. How much better can you improve this with the MBC and other enhancements? Also, Doug what is your HP showing on G-Tech?

Mar 23, 2001 - 04:59 - From: Matthew
Title: EBC Brakes
Message: I have just found what I think is a great deal on EBC "Green stuff" discs (grooved & spotted) and pads for my M100. Can someone let me know what the going price is so I can really know if I got them for a bargain. Thanks Matthew - Colchester Also does anyone know of a reputable dealer/Lotus specialist in the Essex area (I believe there is an H R Owen in Ipswich now....anyone been there ?).

Mar 23, 2001 - 06:12 - From: Richard Steele
Title: Re: EBC Pads Prices
Message: I had a quote from Powerstop back in Jun 2000 and the pads then were 39.00 inc VAT and postage. I then bought some from Powerstop at the Club Lotus Donington festival for 29 inc VAT.

Mar 23, 2001 - 06:59 - From: George
Title: 0-60 time
Message: Edward, last time I did the 0-60 thingy, this was what I've got. With the usual modifications, and my 300lb best friend, also a semi good launch, I got a time around 6 seconds flat from my buddy's stop watch... Gotta get a G-tech for that crap soon...

Mar 23, 2001 - 10:37 - From: Ian
Title: Lotus Servicing from Essex
Message: I live in North London and take the car to Haydon Daytune in Cambridge, or more specifically I get them to come and pick it up. From essex it would be a shorter journey so I would highly recommend them. I will take the opportunity to reiterate my disappointment with London Lotus Centre in St Albans (who I understand are run by H R Owen) and suggest you look elsewhere... Haydon Daytune are also about 30 quid a hour cheaper on labour.... which is nice Phone number is 01223 211889.

Mar 23, 2001 - 11:39 - From: Rod
Title: Wind Screen - Thomas
Message: Thomas, I have the wind blocker think installed from Serious Autos. My main comment would be that the parts from Serious Auto DO NOT include parts to actually fit it to a Lotus. It is designed for an MX5 ( miata ) so you need to work out how to fit it to the Lotus. The quality of the actual Wind Blocker is great though. Pictures of it installed on my car are here : http://www.lotus.thepitlane.com/Cars/Lotus_Elan_M100/Upgrades/Windstop/windstop.html

Mar 23, 2001 - 18:32 - From: Ben
Title: Elan's ground clearance
Message: Can someone tell me the ground clearance of a stock M100 (specially the front spoiler w/ rubber lip) - is it at least 4". I'm just trying to get an idea for transporting the car on a truck. Thanks.

Mar 23, 2001 - 18:46 - From: Russell
Title: Disc and Pad Prices
Message: Latest research - earlier this week :-) EBC - Discs £99 Greenstuff Pads £29 Delivery £10 from Powerstop (this may have included VAT. SCA race-rally wanted £126.90 + £34.83 + £7.00 delivery (inc. VAT). ATE grooved Discs £79 Greenstuff Pads £24 from Christopher Neil (plus VAT this time) also braided hose set £47.90, delivery £8.50. Tarox, 40 grove disc £138, drilled and grooved £132, pads £31.60 (don't know about VAT). The ATE discs which I went for really look the part. Being fitted Monday :-) What prices did you get that were good?

Mar 23, 2001 - 18:52 - From: Russell
Title: Ground clearance
Message: Ground clearance is 130mm or 5.1 inches. Info from service notes.

Mar 23, 2001 - 20:37 - From: Doug
Title: G-Tech
Message: Ed, I do not have any HP readings from the G-Tech. The reason why is that the readings from the G-Tech for HP would be telling you what your "wheel" HP is and not the engine HP. Only if you did a reading before and then immediately after a mod on the same road, same weather, same launch could you tell the difference. Last time I checked 0-60 (long ago) was before I got Bill's exhaust system, my new tires, and some other little things and I got 5.6 seconds with just myself in the car. I should check it again but it will just be a tenth or two faster now. I do plan on going to the next "Dyno Day" with my local BMW Club so I will report the "wheel" HP then likely with full (0.9+) boost! I have not done stopping distances either. In general you will not get figures as good as you want as the G-Tech is too accurate and your figures will be less than anticipated--but used as a before and after tool, then it will tell you something worthwhile.

Mar 24, 2001 - 12:38 - From: Dash of Colour
Title: Carbon-fibre & brushed aluminum
Message: We can replace any Lotus Elan door carpet panels with a carbon fibre, brushed aluminum or chrome effect panel. Also, door scoops and handles are suitable "victims" for the attack of carbon-fibre and look tremendous when done. Anyone wanting to know more can drop us an email or call us (we're in the UK) on 01775 841 078. Talk to me (Stefen) or Claire as we both know what we're talking about. We look forward to enhancing some more beloved Lotus'!

Mar 24, 2001 - 15:59 - From: Bill Luton
Title: Brakes
Message: I'm going to start offering cryogenic treatment as an option on the SMC brake rotors for the Isuzu and Lotus cars. Cryogenic treatment involves lowering the temperature down to -300 degrees F, where the carbon molecules re align forming a smaller and tighter grain within the metal. This improves the wear properties by reducing warpage, cracking, and heat checking, and increasing the durability of the rotor to extend its life by about three and a half times as well as the pads used on the rotor (rotors and pads would last 3 1/2 times longer). This is apparently very popular with fleet vehicle operators, such as police departments and ambulance companies, because it reduces their maintenance costs by as much as 800%. It is also popular with rally car preparation companies, because with treated rotors, they can get several events with a set of rotors and pads while they were getting only one or often less than one event when using untreated rotors._ _ _I've also asked SMC to develop a racing caliper kit for the front of the Elan, as the caliper itself seems to be the majority of what is wrong with the brakes on the car._ _ _One note on cross drilling, which seems to have gotten a bad reputation with some people in the Elan community, two things determine if a rotor is going to crack, the quality of the rotor and the quality of the cross drilling work. Chinese made rotors, which are common for a number of brake suppliers, cost less, but wear quickly and tend to crack even without being cross drilled. Brembo and Eurorotor's don't tend to crack, which is why SMC has been using them. Cross drilling isn't just a matter of walking over to a drill press and going to town on a rotor. Making sure that the holes are drilled through the centers of the vent passages is important to make sure that there are no heat stress points that would cause cracks. Chamfering the holes below turning depth ensures that there are no sharp corners that would allow cracks to form. This is why SMC takes special care in their drill patterning and goes the extra step to chamfer the holes, at significant extra expense of tooling and time._ _ _Bill Luton

Mar 24, 2001 - 21:00 - From: charlie
Title: aaron - goodyear
Message: yes you can use the eagle F1's these are the official replacements for the Eagle G-SDs and G-SD+'s, i run them, i like then a lot.

Mar 25, 2001 - 15:45 - From: Mark
Title: Lights
Message: Can anyone help me with my lights - since I got the car at the start of the year they have never been right. They have been to two garages and adjusted 4 times and they are still not right (the full beam would blind a passing jumbo!!). Are they easy to adjust and if so how and how do I know when they are aligned properly? Also - are they supposed to bounce around when going over, admittedly, bumpy roads - they shake like mad - I suspect this is normal - they are only plastic after all - any help would be appreciated.

Mar 25, 2001 - 16:50 - From: Bryn
Title: Lights
Message: Mark, looking at the lights from the front, each has 3 screws holding it to the headlamp pod and 3 which adjust the angle of the beam (countersunk ones). Screwing the countersunk ones in and out alters the direction of the beam. Not sure of the alignment data for setting them up but if you park a few yards in front of something like a garage door it should be apparent which one is out, then some trial and error adjustment of the screws on a quiet road should get them close, then best get a garage to check over again. Headlamps should not rattle, maybe you have some of the screws holding the headlamps to the pod missing(I have 1 missing and it does make one of the lights bounce over the rough). Also check the pod mounting bolts (2x 10mm bolts behind each pod) which are visible when you lift the bonnet and the security of the rods which connect the pod to the lift motor, there's one on each pod. Hope this helps.

Mar 26, 2001 - 01:01 - From: Kev
Title: CV joint.
Message: My cars is clicking when turning right and taking up drive. I suspect its the CV joint. Could someone tell me if this is a GM/Vauxhall part or do I have to pay mega money for it? I thought that seems though the brakes are Vauxhall Astra, I sort of hoping that its also astra. Thanks.

Mar 26, 2001 - 12:25 - From: Loren
Title: Root Cause of Random NO-START
Message: Found main battery cable connection cable termination practically covered in rosin or something. This connection is actually behind the ash tray on LHD. Battery cable is routed from the battery along the console to the "maxifuse" block - and is bolted to two other cables via a post, one reaching to the starter through the bulkhead, and one to the "maxifuse" block. This bolted connection appears foolproof but upon disassembly found resistance up to 12 ohms on the cable to the starter. This could change with just moving the cable slightly. Pryed out the ashtray to get to the bolted connection, dropping the glovebox helped - the bolt is protectd with a red plastic boot which slips off - just enough room for a dremel tool to clean all the crud off. thank you, Loren

Mar 26, 2001 - 12:34 - From: charlie
Title: goodyears
Message: i forget to mention that the eagle f1s are the metric sized ones not the imperial, they are in two different places in the catalogue and the chap behind the counter will tell you they don't exist first time (they always have for me, even though i've bought them from the same place and chap for the last 3 years) i had to take one fella out to the car to prove it once, he swore blind they didn't exist, he was still arguing with me after i showed them to him. in the end i showed him my previous receipt and tire guarantee with his name on it.

Mar 27, 2001 - 05:53 - From: Ian
Title: Discarding bits of interior
Message: Can anyone tell me a simple way to remove the pieces of trim in the car that cover the seatbelts? Despite a number of holes being drilled into mine presumably to have screws in to hold it in place, there is just a single screw to remove to lift the whole section off, but the seatbelt is still running through it. What is the easiest way of dismantling the seatbelt to get the whole section removed? I am assuming the bolt at the bottom of the seatbelt is going to be more than a little difficult to remove, so can someone suggest a better method? Is it possible to dismantle the seatbelt from the mechanism somehow?

Mar 27, 2001 - 12:58 - From: Will
Title: glove box
Message: Does anyone have a spare or the part number for the glovebox? I made the silly mistake of putting dog treats in my glove box. I left my "always hungry" pit bull in the car when i ran into a store to do an errand. needless to say he got the dog treats. the two little clips that hold the bottom of the glove box on the little metal rod are broken off.

Mar 27, 2001 - 13:37 - From: charlie
Title: glovebox parts
Message: pages 102 and 103 (pics dont link correctly, thumbs only)-> http://www.charliex.net/Lotus/Parts/PartsMan0003.html here at the full size pages. http://www.charliex.net/Lotus/pedal/page102.tif     http://www.charliex.net/Lotus/pedal/page103.tif 

Mar 28, 2001 - 00:21 - From: Scott
Title: random thoughts...
Message: All this recent talk about removing the slack from the accelerator cable to properly experience "wide open throttle" got me thinking (watch out!). I cannot remember if I read this about the Elan or Esprit but I thought Lotus programmed into their ECM to allow for a controlled overboost. Let me elaborate. We all know the boost is set at .65 bar. The max is supposed to be +/- .94 bar. Some Elan owners that have tightened up their accelerator cables have mentioned hitting the overboost max. I, on the other hand, have experienced something else. First, let me say that I have my MBC set at its ultimate max (prior to adjusting the accelerator cable). My MBC has very fine adjustments and I know I have it on the the cusp of .94 bar. While our boost gauge is hokey, it would register between .95 and 1 bar. Now, after fixing the cable, I get a reading on the gauge that literally goes off the chart. It reads well over 1 bar. (this has never, never happened up to this point) And this is why I was writing. Is there anything in the code that allows for a temporary overboost (past the .94 bar max) during wide open throttle? Just wondering. -Scott

Mar 28, 2001 - 01:47 - From: Doug
Title: overboost
Message: Scott, when you achieve "WOT" (wide open throttle) it cues the ECU to allow full boost--perhaps your car was not sensing this previously so you had to set the MBC a bit higher than it should have been. The overboost is a trick used by the factory to get good 0-60 times. I can't remember the exact details but if you rev the throttle at a stop and then take off WOT it will achieve greater than 0.65 bar in stock form (for about 10 sec max). Can't remember but its something like 5000PRM or so, once or twice for a second or two each time to get into the bonus round?? No where is it spelled out how it does this (hence the secret)--it may be using that boost solenoid behind the air filter? This is common to the Esprit as well and the trick has been verified in the car mags in the past. Don't know if they still do this with the V8?

Mar 28, 2001 - 04:00 - From: Rod
Title: USA M100 Track Activity
Message: Do I detect one of our american chums has been doing his first M100 track day of the year ! http://albums.photopoint.com/j/View?u=1295570&a=12287061&p=44844980&Sequence=0&res=high

Mar 28, 2001 - 12:35 - From: charlie
Title: accelerator
Message: The slackness is not normal, the cable stretches over time or slips. New m100s don't have it. Its been almost two years since i did mine, and i have my boost set real high, only on foot to the floor in 1rst in certain weather conditions do i hit overboost, but that's because i did have a superchips installed, and now i don't, but i didn't reduce the MBC setting to compensate for the removal. Also the factory boost gauge is useless for any kind of real result, i was hitting over 1 before i did anything. Only some m100s i've seen have had the issue, when we did the checkup at the lotus run last year i think only two or three actually had the problem, and everyone's reported positive results. Doug's right about the temporary overboost too, it allows you to overboost for a short time before shutting down the turbo (which turns out to be quite a long time while driving).

Mar 28, 2001 - 12:41 - From: peter bentley
Title: Headlights
Message: Anyone performed an upgrade on the lights ? Whilst the stock items aren't bad is there something better out there ?

Mar 28, 2001 - 16:50 - From: Bryn
Title: Lost Gears Trauma
Message: Whilst driving on a track event this evening I lost gears, luckily coming past the pits on last lap. First thought was a broken cable, but I can still get 2nd, 4th and reverse, and it just graunches when I try to get the other gears, would have expected to loose everything if a cable snapped. Only other thought I have is that I have a broken cable but when pulling the stick back (which pushes the cable forward) the broken parts are connecting enough for me to get into gear. Does this sound like a broken cable or something else? Assuming I will be needing a new cable, can anyone advice on best source? are the Lotus parts now improved and not likely to break again? are the Isuzu parts mentioned on this site available in the UK. Any advice would be appreciated.

Mar 28, 2001 - 20:06 - From: Ben
Title: Owner's manual
Message: Anyone knows a good place where to buy a '91 Lotus Elan Owner's manual (+ accessories for that matter). Thanks.

Mar 28, 2001 - 20:10 - From: George
Title: Bryn
Message: It does definitely sounds like a broken cable problem... The first time I blew my cable(s), I had the same thing: 2nd & 4th gear, I am not too sure about the reverse though, since it's been a while. Yup, it's those damn Lotus cables. Do the permanent fix with the Isuzu cables, they are much stronger and only take a small modification to the bracket.

Mar 28, 2001 - 22:22 - From: Lance
Title: Overboost
Message: The overboost on Esprits (89 SE - 95 S4s) is obtained by revving the engine over 5000 RPMS while your car is going 3 MPH or less. The overboost will then last for 27 seconds. However, it will also cut off the overboost if you hit 110 MPH. There are also the issues of your engine having to be at least 75 C or the ECU will limit your boost to below the normal range. Thanks to Andy Whittaker for this information. --- From what I know, the overboost does not exist on the V8. I have not tried the overboost on my V8, but it would be a little hard to tell, since my V8 is a 98 (no boost gauge). I have noticed that I have the same accelerator cable problem with my V8 that I had with the Elan. Can't wait to fix that and see the difference!

Mar 28, 2001 - 22:26 - From: Lance
Title: roof assembly rubbing
Message: I know that it is a common problem for the roof assembly to rub and eventually tear the roof near the back side of the roof on both sides. However, I've noticed that mine is rubbing so hard that when I put the top up there is a little deformation like a bubble at that spot. Is it supposed to push THAT hard against the roof? I never noticed before, but I was not really looking. Is there a way to adjust this so that it AT LEAST rubs less? Thanks!

Mar 28, 2001 - 23:20 - From: Doc Fizzix
Title: Stuff
Message: Two things, my roof was rubbing allot on the sides where it goes up and down as well as others mentioned. i found a piece of thick canvas and cut out two piece, one for each side, and used some 3m glue to adhere them. You would really never notice the pieces I glued in place since I really matched up the color and the pattern. I also cut the pieces for a real nice looking fit. Lastly, my boost gage started jumping around over the last couple of weeks and according to Doug's suggestions, I checked the ground wire. I noticed that the connector really showed sings of oxidation so i cleaned the terminal where it connects to the boost sensor and sure enough, works great, just like new! WHO WANTS MY EXTRA ENGINE? Al

Mar 29, 2001 - 03:36 - From: Rod
Title: Gears
Message: It certainly sounds like a cable has broken. My cable went at about 20k miles and 2 years. They were replaced with Lotus cables that have been working fine for over 40k miles and 8 years now. So perhaps the later design Lotus cables are ok. Anyone else had the later Lotus cables fitted and been running ok with them ?

Mar 29, 2001 - 04:55 - From: Guillermo
Title: RE: Ben owner's manual
Message: Take a look at www.lotus-books.com, I bought mine there, service was fast and international shipping rate was reasonable.

Mar 29, 2001 - 05:02 - From: Kev H
Title: CV Joint.
Message: My cars is clicking when turning right and taking up drive. I suspect its the CV joint. Could someone tell me if this is a GM/Vauxhall part or do I have to pay mega money for it? I thought that seems though the brakes are Vauxhall Astra, I sort of hoping that its also astra. Thanks.

Mar 29, 2001 - 13:37 - From: Dave S.
Title: M100 race chum
Message: Ron, I'm not sure how you got the picture of me at Road Atlanta last Sunday, but thanks. Yes, it is the first track day of the year, trying to get the bugs out for the HSR Walter Mitty in April. Had a great and successful day, the car still sticks like glue in the turns, maybe next year I will turbo charge it.

Mar 30, 2001 - 01:53 - From: Rod
Title: M100 Race Chum
Message: Dave, the pictures were from a chap with an Exige that was also there the same day. It was his first outing in the Exige, and he wanted me to see some sunshine, as its still wet and cold over here in the UK. Plus a lot of track/airfield days are being cancelled over here due to foot and mouth problems.

Mar 30, 2001 - 05:13 - From: rudz
Title: spark plug gaps
Message: doug, the official word is out. factory advises that the M100 turbo should be on the BKR6E (0.8mm gap) for optimum idle stability & city driving performance. but before everyone goes out to adjust their plug gaps, they also add that for optimum high speed use, the colder BKR7E-11 (1.1mm gap) would be better but it compromises on idle stability. so i guess, it depends on whether our ELANS are daily (city) drivers or weekend blasters .....rudz

Mar 30, 2001 - 07:30 - From: Russ
Title: Sunday Run
Message: Anyone (else) doing the Fish n Chip run from Basingstoke to Beaulieu National Motor Museum on Sunday ? Be nice to see a few Elans out. link http://www.fishandchiprun.co.uk/fandc_home/new_runs/mikeclark/Fish_and_Chip_Run-Hants_n_Wilts.htm

Mar 30, 2001 - 08:08 - From: PaulT
Title: Re- Elan Insurance - Geoff
Message: Try "Privilege Insurance". I was 23 when I bought my Elan, cost me £741 Full Comp + Protection (£300 excess), with full NCB, garaged with Thatcham 1 Immob & Alarm.

Mar 30, 2001 - 10:59 - From: Rod
Title: Sunday Run
Message: Sorry Russ, cannot make it. Have cashed in all my brownie points with the g-friend. A great route though, and looks like you will have good weather. I *expect* a report and some pictures :-)

Mar 30, 2001 - 11:41 - From: peter
Title: Sunday Drivers
Message: Hi Russ can't do the run unfortunately, the last one was good fun and a good route, have fun catch you next time. Hope you have the sun for your trip its been out today at long last!!

Mar 30, 2001 - 15:33 - From: Steve P
Title: Fish & Chips
Message: Fortunately I've not used up my brownie points with the wife this month (having missed Donington!)so if it's not raining I'll hopefully meet a few other Elans at Sainsburys. Better make the most of it as Lotus are in big doodaah with their dealers at present, many of which are in receivership! What with M250 deposits going missing and MkII Elises' failing to hit the streets who knows what the future holds?! Hopefully things will sort themselves out. Hope to see a few of you on Sunday.

Mar 30, 2001 - 17:54 - From: Mark Smith
Title: Gear selection
Message: Any advice would be most welcome. I have just bought a 1992 Elan SE and I am having some trouble selecting 2nd and to a lesser extent 4th and reverse gears. Is this a problem with the linkage? If so, is there adjustment or do the cables have to be replaced. Thanks for your help.

Mar 30, 2001 - 19:35 - From: George
Title: Gear selection
Message: Mark, I think it's the cable. When the cable start to wear out, those are the tell-tale signs. After another couple of weeks or less, you won't be able to tell where is 2nd and 4th. Get the cables replaced, and you will be fine.

Mar 31, 2001 - 01:04 - From: Doug
Title: Gears
Message: Mark, I foresee your gear cable failing imminently!! It is probably already broken at the linkage but has not come undone yet. I expect if you go do ONE hard shift from 1st to 2nd gear you will then loose one of the cables and be left with 1st,3rd and 5th only--just enough to drive to the mechanic. Research our Message archives here as this comes up every few months and all the pertinent info and recommendations are here! Remember to replace BOTH gear change cables as the other cable will be near failure too and the labour will be the same!!

Mar 31, 2001 - 01:55 - From: Edward
Title: Tranny Oil
Message: Hey Doug, I found your 10 mm socket underneath my car. I was trying to finally get the tranny oil changed and lost the bolt holding the retaining clip to the speedo. I managed to get extension for my socket wrench and coupled about 3 to get the length, to reach the 10 mm bolt. Removing it was easy, sure after we struggled for 2-hours and used liquid wrench...Anyway, I'll bring it with me on Apr 22nd. Just a question, when you removed the speedo cable to service the tranny, and put it back, does it matter on the orientation of the speedo cable? I put it in and made sure it was seated down, and just found another 10 mm bolt off a Japanese motorcycle. It seemed to fit Ok.

Mar 31, 2001 - 02:37 - From: Doug
Title: Tranny Oil Change
Message: Ed, so you found it after all! I told ya it was easy ;-) Sounds like you did it fine. How did the old oil look? Yeah there was some grit around the assembly edges when I pulled it up--it's just a gear that turns the cable going to your speedo, so you can replace it in any orientation; just be sure it is fully seated when replacing the assembly! It'd probably be better to put in a new bolt with taller bolt threads cause the OE bolt is pretty weak and could get stripped. I'll see you at the Gathering and will post some info here tomorrow. I have some time off next week so am going flying finally!

Mar 31, 2001 - 12:08 - From: Edward
Title: Tranny Oil changed
Message: Doug, the tranny oil was very dark. I figured that I should change it, since the car is almost 10 years old. The mileage is now 17,000, so I have driven the car about 4,000 since I bought it last October. While trying to remove the bolt, I found a slight leak in one of the cooling hoses. It was the one that has a "Y" shape to it. The leak is minor, but I'd better get the part on order soon. This will be the next project for me.

Mar 31, 2001 - 12:35 - From: Bryn
Title: Gearbox Oil
Message: I know there has been loads or discussion on the subject of gear oil, just wondered if Shell Helix Ultra fully synthetic motor oil, SAE 5W/30 would be suitable (I have some already). Would Seem to be the same spec. as the Mobil One 5W/30 fully synthetic quoted in the owners handbook.

Mar 31, 2001 - 13:02 - From: Bryn
Title: Gear Cable Trauma part 2
Message: Whilst investigating my suspected broken cable, I noticed that one had pulled through the plastic adjuster and was now on the max setting, effectively lengthening the cable by 1". This meant that I could not select all gears. By twisting the plastic adjuster just behind the bracket on the gearbox, pushing the cable back then locking the adjuster, voila, I have all gears again. I am sure what happened here is a sign of impending and permanent cable failure, but having driven the car for a day with no repeat of the problem I have decided to leave it for now (cables cost £230 UKP so not something I am keen to rush into). Anyone who suffers the same symptoms may wish to check the cable adjuster, this may only turn out to be a temporary fix but would certainly get the car mobile again and back home or to a garage.

Mar 31, 2001 - 13:13 - From: Doug
Title: Gear Cables
Message: Bryn, you are pretty good! I agree it is likely this is impending doom as the plastic connector eventually succombs to time and wear, and it cracks and fails! There is supposedly a "re-design" of the original cables by Lotus but do not know the details of it (perhaps with metal parts?). All the cables we get here in the US still have the plastic connector piece, but check your sources there! Replacing them with these of old design will doom them to repeated failure, but this may be another 10 years. The Isuzu cables for the Impulse/Asuna has METAL connectors and is a better replacement, except some modification is required at the ends to get them to fit the Elan properly. Another plus is that they are cheap--only about $40/each here. Rather than continue on, I will let you get back to us and also search the message archives for all this info and more from the past.

Mar 31, 2001 - 14:15 - From: Nicole Cook
Title: Engine Management Code
Message: Couple of questions! Can anyone tell me what the standard UK Elan 4 digit EPROM (MEMCAL) code, or ECU type number is? Has anyone got a dump of the Superchips modified code? Nicole Cook

Mar 31, 2001 - 16:07 - From: Joel
Title: Battery drain (+ Isuzu cables)
Message: As part of my plans for my temporary move East, I installed a brand new 72-month battery in the M100 that I am sure was fully charged when I left CA in January. I have a friend starting the car every 1-2 weeks for a warm-up but not to drive. Last week the battery was flat when he went to start it (although it started fine the 3 or 4 previous times he cranked it). That seems like a lot drain to me--maybe as much as 0.5 amp continuous draw, if you do some estimates of available amp-hours from the battery and the time it sits between starting. So, does anyone know what the normal "keep alive" current draw should be for the car? I'll be back in CA next month and can get it on the road for a day or two, but I guess I'll need to install a trickle charger for those long dormant periods ahead. Any other recommendations? On Doug's comment about the Isuzu cables, I did that job last summer (with the help of a mechanic friend) and the price of the cables from the local GM dealer was about $80 US each--a little more than Doug's price, but still much better than the cost of Lotus parts. Also, the tranny bracket modification required is pretty straightforward and DOES NOT require spot welding, as I think was mentioned earlier. Happy Lotusing! Joel

Mar 31, 2001 - 22:47 - From: Steve
Title: Battery Drain
Message: You could do what I've done and install a battery kill switch, it fits on the battery's terminal and has a wheel you turn to make contact or not, it's designed to be an anti-theft device as it has a low fused line to keep alarms etc running but as the problem is battery drain over long periods i took this line off so it's a straight battery cut. Only drawbacks are no alarm working and you have to reset the clock every time you re-connect, depends on your situation but as my car "hibernates" the UK winter in the garage ( which is alarmed :-] ) it works great for me, was only about £10 too, i think :-]