Description
Series 4 Lotus Elan SE. genuine type 45 DHC. (black badge model) finished in French Blue with black interior trim. This Elan was professionally restored in 2007, by its second owner. the car has covered only 5000 miles since, being part of a private collection of the restorer for most of the intervening period, until I purchased it in 2023.
The original restoration included a genuine replacement galvanized Lotus chassis and repaint of the undamaged bodywork to its original colour. The paint finish is exceptional indicating that the restoration was carried out to a high standard. (frequently a problem with recently refinished GRP bodywork). the interior trim and dashboard are excellent with new seat belts. The wheels are currently shod with Dunlop Sport tyres complete with the correct trims. The hood is as new. A stainless exhaust system was fitted together with a 4 branch exhaust manifold. The restoration resulted in a very original Series 4 Elan.
Following my purchase of the car, it was comprehensively recommissioned including braking system flushed, calipers stripped, new pads. Fuel system cleaned with new electric fuel pump (with safety cut out) Stromberg carbs rebuilt. Front suspension dampers replaced with Tony Thompson adjustable dampers and springs, new battery etc.
Over the winter 23/ 24 the engine was removed and it was decided to carry out a complete strip down and rebuild of the unit.
The cylinder head was refurbished by JS Motorsports with new valves, guides, seats, and springs etc.
The block was rebored and new QED forged pistons fitted, all crank and cam bearing shells replaced, new cam chain and sprockets, Burton cassette type water pump, new oil pump with spin on filter. The flywheel was machined and balanced with a reconditioned OEM clutch cover, plate and release bearing.
The distributer was rebuilt, new HT leads and coil fitted.
The cooling system was upgraded with a Coolex alloy radiator, plus electric fan with Davies Craig digital thermostatic control and manual over ride. the brake master cylinder was replaced and the clutch MC overhauled. new clutch slave cylinder and braided clutch hose refitted. the original dynamo was replaced by a modern Nippon Denso alternator. Additional fuses were installed for the fan motor.
The car has currently done 150 miles since the engine rebuild. The Elan was purchased to use for Sprints and Hillclimbs hence the installation of a bolt-in Safety Devices roll bar and sill bars together with suspension and mechanical overhaul. The car has not been used for competition due to lack of time. The car is now for sale due to the need for space, to progress another project.
The sale includes the original radiator and dynamo together with some useful spares.
