Segment:
High-performance, exotic sports car.
Competitors Era:
Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS, Porsche 911 SC/Carrera, Lamborghini Silhouette/Jalpa, Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Design Philosophy:
Mid-engined, lightweight chassis, fibreglass body, turbocharged performance.
Handling Characteristics:
Renowned for exceptional handling and roadholding due to Lotus's advanced chassis engineering.
Value Proposition For Owner:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their iconic Lotus Esprit Turbo, preserving its performance and value.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, tuning, component specifications.
Engine Fuel System:
Carburetor (Dellorto DHLA) overhaul and adjustment, fuel pump, lines, and filter maintenance.
Engine Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing procedures, and troubleshooting.
Engine Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Engine Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure specifications, and fluid requirements.
Transmission Manual:
Manual gearbox overhaul, clutch operation, gearbox fluid specifications, and shift linkage adjustment.
Chassis Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Chassis Steering:
Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and power steering system (if applicable).
Chassis Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, calipers, pads), hydraulic system, bleeding procedures, and parking brake.
Electrical System Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, and wiring diagrams for lighting circuits.
Electrical System Charging:
Alternator, battery, starter motor, and charging system testing.
Electrical System Instruments:
Dashboard gauges, warning lights, and instrument cluster repair.
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, and upholstery.
Body Glass And Seals:
Windshield, side glass, rear glass, and sealing components replacement.
Heating And Ventilation:
HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, and ventilation controls.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid top-offs, and general inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major components and sub-assemblies.
Repair And Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for repairing worn or damaged parts and rebuilding major systems.
Cleaning And Inspection:
Procedures for cleaning components during disassembly and inspecting for wear or damage.
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing specific parts such as brake pads, alternators, fuel pumps, etc.
Performance Tuning:
Guidance on adjusting engine timing, carburetor settings for optimal performance.
Depth:
Complete factory service manual covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced do-it-yourself mechanics.
Oil Change:
Recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Specific interval detailed in manual.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect/replace every 10,000-15,000 miles. Manual provides specific part numbers and gap settings.
Timing Belt:
Although the Type 912 engine uses a timing chain, the manual will detail its inspection and maintenance schedule. (Correction: The Lotus Type 912 engine uses a timing chain).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate and oil type used historically). Capacity approx. 5.5 liters.
Gearbox Oil:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 specification gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.75 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual provides specific type and bleeding procedures.
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50). Manual details capacity and type.
Turbo Reliability:
Early turbo systems can require careful maintenance. Manual covers turbocharger inspection and servicing.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can be susceptible to issues. Comprehensive wiring diagrams in manual are crucial.
Fibreglass Bodywork:
Susceptible to minor cracks or damage; manual provides guidance on repair.
