D5. What problems might I expect from an Elan?
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This article is from the Lotus Cars FAQ, by esprit@netcom.com (Alan F. Perry) with numerous contributions by others.
D5. What problems might I expect from an Elan?
From Bob Bandera (rbandera@apsc.com):
One common Elan problem, actually a 1558 TC problem, is the water
pump. I have replaced mine twice within 20,000 miles - the first
time because the bearing was going and the second time for insurance
since the motor was out of the car. I have heard that they can fail
within 20k miles. Overly tight fan belt is an obvious error given
the royal pain it is replacing the water pump.
TCs nearly always leak oil - some typical areas are easily fixed;
the two that I see as difficult are the front timing cover and the
rear rope seal (early motors with 4 bolt cranks)
From Karen C. Babb (kcb4286@aw101.iasl.ca.boeing.com):
Chronic original Elan problem areas:
- rotoflex couplings (check often, replace @25K mile interevals)
- inboard and outboard stub axles, if you race the car at all
- plastic clutch line melting against Sprint headers => fire
- water pump
- frame cracks around engine mounts, rear suspension attachments,
diff
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