Vehicle Class:
Lightweight sports car
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Triumph TR4, MG MGB GT, Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GT
Design Philosophy:
Renowned for its lightweight construction, superb handling, and aerodynamic fiberglass body.
Engine Placement:
Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Chassis Type:
Steel backbone chassis with fiberglass body
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact number not provided, but described as covering 'every single detail' and 'complete disassembly')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine:
Complete engine systems, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Detailed coverage of gearbox, clutch, and driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including wishbones, coil springs, shock absorbers, and geometry settings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, and brake line routing.
Steering:
Steering rack, column, and linkages.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, starter, charging system, and accessories.
Bodywork:
Chassis and body construction, fiberglass body panel repair, door mechanisms, and trim.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Weber or SU) tuning and overhaul, fuel pump, and fuel lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, thermostat, and water pump.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-ups.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, based on complete disassembly.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and solutions for common problems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Adjustments:
Detailed procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, carburetor, ignition timing, and suspension geometry.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics; covers complete disassembly and rebuild.
Printability:
Full Printable
Zoom Functionality:
YES (Zoom IN/OUT enabled)
Binding Type:
Digital (Downloadable PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for potential archive extraction)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Code:
Lotus Twin Cam (pre-type 65)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1558 cc (95.1 cu in)
Horsepower:
Approximately 105-115 bhp @ 6000 rpm (depending on specific tuning and carburetor setup)
Torque:
Approximately 105-115 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Carburetors:
Typically twin Weber 40 DCOE or SU HS4 carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (historically leaded gasoline, but modern equivalents are available)
Ignition System:
Coil and distributor, points ignition (may have been upgraded to electronic)
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually.
Tune Up:
Recommended every 6,000-10,000 miles for ignition and carburetor adjustments.
Engine Oil:
20W-50 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating, typically for classic cars).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual, primarily for hydraulic clutch and brakes).
Gearbox Oil:
GL-4 or GL-5 Hypoid gear oil (specific viscosity depends on gearbox model, often 80W-90).
Chassis Corrosion:
The steel backbone chassis, while strong, is susceptible to rust, particularly in damp climates. Regular inspection and treatment are crucial.
Fiberglass Body:
Gelcoat cracking or crazing, stress cracks around stress points (e.g., door openings), potential for delamination if water ingress occurs.
Engine Wear:
Twin Cam engines, while rev-happy, can be sensitive to oil quality and overheating. Regular valve adjustments are important.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults.
Brand Philosophy:
Lightweight, handling, and simplicity ('Simplify, then add lightness').
Type 26 Significance:
The original Elan model, defining the Elan's iconic design and performance characteristics.
Production Period:
1962-1973 (across various Series and variants)
Manufacturing Base:
Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, England
