Model Series:
Type 26 (Roadster), Type 36 (Coupe), Type 45 (DHC)
Product Name:
Lotus ELAN Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Chassis Codes:
Type 26, Type 36, Type 45
Legacy Status:
The Lotus Elan is a celebrated classic sports car, highly regarded for its handling and lightweight construction.
Competitors:
Competed against cars like the MGB, Triumph TR4/TR5, and Alfa Romeo Giulia Spider.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its exceptional handling, steering feel, and lightweight 'ংlotus' chassis design.
Design Philosophy:
Embodied Colin Chapman's 'Simplify, then add lightness' philosophy.
Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and preserving the car's originality and performance.
Model Years Covered:
1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975
Models Covered:
All Elan variants including Roadster (Type 26), Coupe (Type 36), Drophead Coupe (DHC - Type 45), Sprint, Special Equipment (SE)
Engine Variants Covered:
All engine types fitted to the Elan during its production run.
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels and equipment specifications.
Transmission Types Covered:
All transmission options and configurations.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 500+ pages, reflecting comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Downloadable Digital File
Usage Options:
Printable, viewable on PC, MAC, tablets, smartphones
Powertrain:
Engine (Lotus-Ford Twin Cam), drivetrain, clutch, transmission (4-speed Ford, optional 5-speed ZF), differential.
Chassis And Suspension:
Steel backbone chassis, front and rear suspension (independent, double wishbone front, trailing links and Watts linkage rear), steering system.
Brakes:
Disc brakes (all-round), brake system overhaul and maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Bodywork And Interior:
Fiberglass body construction, panel repair, interior trim, seating, weather sealing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, lubrication points.
Engine Overhaul:
Engine teardown, inspection, rebuild procedures for the Lotus-Ford Twin Cam engine.
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement, alignment procedures, steering rack overhaul.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common electrical faults, circuit testing.
Body Repair:
Fiberglass bodywork repair techniques, including patching and structural integrity.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Torque Specifications:
Includes critical torque values for fasteners across all systems.
Engine Type:
Lotus-Ford Twin Cam
Displacement:
1558 cc (1.6 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82.55 mm x 72.75 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (typical for Twin Cam)
Horsepower:
105-126 bhp (depending on variant, e.g., standard, S, Sprint)
Torque:
100-110 lb-ft (approximate)
Carburetors:
Twin Weber 40 DCOE or Dell'Orto DHLA (later models/variants) or Stromberg CD carburetors.
Ignition System:
Distributor-based ignition system.
Type:
4-speed Manual (Ford GT gearbox)
Type:
5-speed Manual (ZF S4-18/3)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios provided in manual for both 4-speed and 5-speed transmissions.
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W/90 or equivalent).
Safety Features Era:
As per 1960s/1970s standards; focus on active safety through handling.
Braking System:
Girling disc brakes on all four wheels.
Suspension Handling:
Independent suspension and low center of gravity for stability.
Seat Belts:
Optional or standard depending on market and year, manual covers installation/adjustment.
Roll Over Protection:
Optional hardtop or factory roll-over hoop on some versions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, with specific recommendations in the manual.
Tune Up Interval:
As per manual, often involving spark plug, points, and carburetor adjustments.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W/50 (e.g., Castrol GTX 20W-50 or equivalent).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid.
Fiberglass Body:
Potential for stress cracks, osmosis, and delamination in the fiberglass body, covered in repair section.
Chassis Corrosion:
Although robust, the steel backbone chassis can be susceptible to corrosion if not maintained, especially at mounting points.
Engine Reliability:
The Twin Cam engine requires diligent maintenance; manual provides guidance on common wear items and adjustments.
Lotus Philosophy:
Founded by Colin Chapman, a focus on lightweight sports cars and racing success.
Key Variants:
Series 1 (Type 26, 36), Series 2 (Type 45 DHC, Coupe), Sprint (performance variant).
Production Years:
1962-1971
Manufacturing Location:
Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, England
