cazalea
[Seiko Moderator]
20972
Story of an Old Friend: Lotus Elan, Part 4
I think I should conclude with the results of today's test drive.
LOWTUS started right up, with just a few seconds cranking and a bit of choke.
I got out on the freeway for a 20-mile run before the sun and tourists came out to play on the freeways.
I had hoped to get a photo of the plane overhead but it came through the clouds sooner than I thought it would. I can't go much faster than 75 mph because the 20-year-old tires are pretty flat-spotted. I will have to drive it a bit more this week and see if they will round out again, or if I need to buy new ones. Probably new ones - but the sizes are hard to find nowadays. It was hard back then!
In addition, I have identified a few jobs that need doing - adjust the doors so they close properly again (nasty fiberglass shards-into-fingertips job), and rebuild the pedal shaft / box as pressing the brake takes down the clutch pedal, and vice versa.
Seiko Flightmaster today.
Beauty shot at the park
Same park, same car with Steve's Jag, in 1998.
Seiko Flightmaster today.
Beauty shot at the park
Same park, same car with Steve's Jag, in 1998.
The end (for now)
Cazalea
The Story of an Old Friend: Lotus Elan, Part 1
This is the story of my 1971 Lotus Elan #0149K. It is the second of the 5 Lotuses I have agreed to buy, garage, title, maintain and occasionally drive. It's the Lotus I have owned the longest - in fact I bought it 24 years and 3 days ago, for $8000 from a...
Story of an Old Friend: Lotus Elan, Part 2
This is the second installment in my 24-year ownership of Elan 0149K. The first article tells about its purchase and restoration. Before I get into my experiences driving my car, I have to say that I went to Scotland shortly after I finished its restorati...
I remember your last picture very well, and saved it in my hard disc many years ago... Fantastic to have the three of them.
I know what you mean when you write that you don't want to go too far from home with this Elan. Still, a bit of a pity, as driving it for a long trip would have been an even more superb experience. Can't wait for Part Three. Best, Nicolas
The charm of vintage cars. They all require attention and work, more or less...
But it is so rewarding! Thank you so much for tjis superb post, Mike. Best, Nicolas
Yes, but "more work" means my aching back and hands will suffer even more
I'm smarter about these things than I used to be, but not so flexible or able to get down into this engine compartment!
Story of an Old Friend: Lotus Elan, Part 3
LOWTUS had been languishing in the garage for 2 1/2 years, from what I can recall. No particular reason - just a host of small problems and multiplicity of other life events going on. But my wife was nagging (gently reminding) me to get it going again. Fr...
LUCAS - THE KING OF DARKNESS !
Beautifull story of a wonderfull car with and a great motor! Best Walter
Story of an Old Friend: Lotus Elan, Part 4
I think I should conclude with the results of today's test drive. LOWTUS started right up, with just a few seconds cranking and a bit of choke. I got out on the freeway for a 20-mile run before the sun and tourists came out to play on the freeways. I had ...
Great history & write up of your 'pocket rocket' LOTUS, Mike - thanks for sharing.
and good to see this particular Elan to have less ( L oads O f T rouble) U sually S erious problems too ;-) Cheers Giles
Alas it's got loads of trouble, not that serious
Current issue involves rebuilding the pedal box (shaft & pedals) as when you press the brake the clutch goes down, and partly vice versa. And the headlights don't work. And the doors must be realigned which is about as easy as exiting the EU. Otherwise, i...
All in a 50yo cars day ;-)
I look forward to having an analogue car again & when I have the time to commit to it - alas that’s still some yrs away. Cheers. Giles.
Giant killers
Always enjoyed watching Lotuses take on much bigger competition at vintage races. They punch above their weight class. What a wonderful long term relationship and a beautiful Elan. Thank you for sharing your story, Wojo