LotusElan.info

July 2003

1st

Dismantled the crankcase ready for inspection.  When checked there was found to be some ovaling on the big ends.  Noticed a small crack in number three cylinder

2nd

Ian Shaw dropped round to inspect the gearbox.  Decided that best way forward would be to replace oil seals and drop the box back into the car as the gears and bearings appeared sound.

 5th

David came round to measure the crankshaft

7th

Dropped block of at machine shop.  Engineer noted that a liner had been fitted to the number three cylinder before.

Ordered gasket set, water & oil pumps from QED

later that month...

The engineer rang to tell me that the pots would require re-boring and that would mean new pistons.  Dug deep into my pockets and ordered a set of +0.0030" pistons from QED

Removed the propshaft for overhaul.  After several attempts, I decided to leave the diff on the old chassis and use the spare diff that I had.  Upon comparing the flanges of the diff and the propshaft I found them to be different sizes.  Had a chat with Andy at Spyder Engineering who suggested that the diff with the larger flange (the spare) may be a 4.55 ratio as opposed to 4.77.  This would slightly reduce the revs at speed and as I'm not converting to a 5 speed box at this stage, it would be better.

Ordered a new flange for the propshaft from Bailey Morris

Ordered numerous parts from SJ Sportscars including diff front seal and UJ's.

Got the brake callipers back from Classicar Automotive:

Collected engine block back from W Bates and left Cylinder Head with him for overhaul.

Painted block with original Lotus coloured paint.

Fitted UJ's to propshaft along with new flange.

Went on holiday