AE General Discussion

Interstate Transport

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 10:46:11 +0000

I note that a number of people are thinking of transporting their Lotus to QLD on a transporter.

It is a good idea but...........

you will need to be very specific about how the cars are secured. Most transport companies use chains around suspension members and then ratchet it all tight. If this is done to our Elise/Exige it WILL bend the lower wishbones for sure. No might or maybe, it WILL. Hell, a decent curb jumping on the track can bend the outer end of the lower wishbone so a 3000k trip bouncing along on the back of a truck......

So please talk to the company well in advance and ascertain how they propose to secure the cars. Get them to show you by actually loading one car to see what I mean. Please be careful.

The best way is with an over the tyre webbing assembly on each and all tyres. That is the only way I would even contemplate transport on a truck.

A lot of the trucks are not designed for our very low cars, another problem as they load and unload and if you have seen the short cuts that they take you might think again. Have a look at a transporter closely the next time you see a loaded one and try to visualise your toy straddled across the curved decking.

As always........just my random thoughts.....you may dismiss them as such if you like or take them onboard as the rantings of a befuddled ex-chalky

D

Elise Or Exige

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 08:05:14 +0000

Hi all, I'm looking at both Elise and Exige and wondering which is the best way to go? Like the idea of the Elise as soft top in Perth is a nice way to go but coming from a few big bikes I'm not sure the performance of the Elise will be enough. I remember testing an S2000 a while back now and thinking is this it? Now I know it's not an Elise but last time I was in one of those was when they first came out and I before I got into the biking scene. My only experience in an Exige was that it was quick but that was being driven through town and sensation of speed is more than when your out on the back roads. So any thoughts?

Lotus Key Blade?

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 05:07:52 +0000

hi there guys... lost one of my keys, so ordered one from stratton

gave them my vin and that tag id thing. however got the blade and fob today, but the blade
that was cut is totally different from mine... so i have absolutely no idea what's going on there.

can the blades be bought as blank and cut here instead?

Even The Age Is Having A Vote On Lotus's Direction!

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 06:13:56 +0000

http://www.theage.com.au/polls/drive/lotus-poll/20100903-14tjf.html

Gtr+Cash Or R8 V10

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 07:45:17 +0000

Guys

Suggestion needed

Thinking about buy another car and use it as DD
Its not a replacement for my lotus. Just another car I can actually use it every day.

The question is:

If you have a chance to choose from

A. Nissan GTR and 200k cash

B. Audi R8 V10 manual

Which one you will choose ?

The R8 is a sweet car but GTR can do everything better by only cost half of the money but OMG GTR is ugly.

Cheap Oil?

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:20:47 +0000

GLU Lubricants

Prices seem to be cheap if you are looking for these oils.

I haven't done business with them or know anything about them other than the website but for people in Sydney who use these oils you might save a few bucks.

Who Says Collingwood Supporters Dont Have All Their Teeth ?

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 11:18:28 +0000

All of mine are still there... just listen !

What Sort Of Person Buys A Lotus?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:43:57 +0000

Was curious to know what sort of people, more specifically what jobs/industry's people are in that buy a lotus??

So firstly my name is Scott and I currently work for Barry Plant in Ivanhoe (Melbourne based for those that don't know). Yes I know I'm a dreaded REAL ESTATE AGENT!!

Before this I was at Mercedes Melbourne selling new & Pre-Owned cars (no not some dodgy car yard, lol)

So now that everyone thinks I'm some low life scum of the earth sales person please feel free to introduce yourself!

Nsw Pink Slip And Vic Rwc?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 02:43:41 +0000

Hi, does anyone know, if a car has a recent NSW pink slip, how likely is it to pass a Vic RWC without trouble?

I know how strict they are with these in Vic and they always seem to find something to line their pockets.

Cheers,
Darren

Finally I Own One.

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 23:52:42 +0000

Well since leaving the UK 2 years ago I have been on this Forum talking about buying a Lotus, but it kept getting put on hold by House renovations, children etc etc. But finally I went to Canberra this weekend and returned with a red 111R.

I'm not new to Lotus ownership, after owning an S1 when first released in 98, but it took a little getting use to again over the weekend, things I noticed:-

1) The highways in Oz, aren't the smoothest, there is one part near Lake George my head was going to explode.

2) I have to get use to climbing in and out again.

3) The 2ZZ is great above 6k RPM but below is a little lazy, I can feel a SC coming some point.

4) After all the talk of Exhausts, I don't need one, the car is loud enough. Unless I can find one which uses valves that open at a predefined RPM.

But jeez the car makes you smile, just need to get it registered in NSW now and fit the parts I have lined up so far.

My 3 year old daughter loves the car, she spent over an hour sat in it yesterday. I would start a thread about car seats but feel I would be banned from this forum forever :-) (But if anyone knows where I can get one)

Cheers Sean

PS Pics to follow.

Sound Deadening Material

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:35:47 +0000

Anyone have any advice on good sound deadening material - what to buy, where, how much etc etc? Since fitting the s/c I have a lot more noise in the cabin with the roof on and its starting to p*** me off a bit. I don't like the idea of adding extra weight, but maybe I can compensate in future somehow else (hmmm...lightweight flywheel maybe???).

Saved By The Clamhinge!

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:32:32 +0000

It started off a slight noise in the engine bay as I was leaving work.

Then it became a bit louder.

Then while pulling into the kerb smoke started appearing (!!!!)

There was a distinct smell of burning rubber. Accompanied by smoke streaming out the RHS of the clam. I was not doing a burnout. Oh-oh

I suspected (and hoped) my adjuster pulley for the s/c belt had come loose, and the belt was slipping at s/c speeds against the pulley.

I was driving, but I wasn't going anywhere fast. Darkness was falling. I pulled over and hit the mobile.

A quick phone call to the nearest AE member (thanks again Rich) saw us manned with spanners within 15 minutes.

I was sure it was the s/c belt, with the tensioner working its way loose with vibration (err...loctite anyone? doh!)

Couldn't really get at it easily, so within 6 minutes we had the clam up. Two later, checked everything, we confirmed it was the adjuster, adjusted. Then put the clamhinge back down, and off home for dinner!

No more smoke. No more noise...just a nice whoooshing sound.

Saved by the Aussie Clamhinge!!!

PS: I'd post some pics but have used my limit and still haven't got round to moving the ones for the Komo-tec kit off the site yet.

Supercharged Evora Rumored For Paris Motorshow

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 05:12:46 +0000

As per the title. Once of these would be nice in my shed. Autoguide

Parts For Servicing

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 07:00:02 +0000

So I'm based on the Gold Coast, so more of a question for the Qld guys who deal with local mechanics, but this still applies everywhere I suppose.

I'm almost due to have a service, and I've read previously Automotion are a good bet in Brisbane, but I was wondering about parts that need replacing and whether these guys keep sufficient spares or if you supply your own that you've shipped in from overseas?

Does everyone go for the manual spec services A,B,C etc? Or do you do part/most of it yourself and then just tell them what else you need done? Or do you order parts you need (specific pads, filters etc) and hand them over with the car?

Just curious as I've not dealt with any of them yet, but want to keep the costs down.

Exiige Vic Plates

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 01:09:24 +0000

Hi Victorians,

I am about to surrender PhilK's victorian plates "EXIIGE" which I assume will then become available to anyone who wants them in Victoria.

Discusting...

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:11:31 +0000

I'm sure this has happened to someone before, but some filthy barsteward threw his cigarette butt out the car window and it must have flown in through the vent and lodged in the heater/air unit intake much as leaves find their way through.

It absolutely stunk my car out of a dying cigarette so I drove home with all the windows open so not to spew up everywhere.

Do I have to wait for it to dislodge or is there a way of getting at it easily? It's so gross.

Omg Its Drooping

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 01:38:59 +0000

All of a sudden, one of my rear view mirrors folded up against the side of the car. Could've been something to do with considerable wind speed around the creek yesterday, but I was watching Barry M sliding around happily one moment, and then all I could see was the side of my car. This was not good, because Barry is getting faster and faster and I did not want to be accused of holding him up. Or maybe, I wanted to be able to see him because he is getting so indecently quick that I needed to indulge in some old age and treachery. Whatever.

Now, I know that others have had the same problem, and the cure seems to be something to do with roughing up the ball upon which it swivels. Before I go and rip things apart unnecesarily, I'd welcome comments about the best way to cure the droops and what the most efficient steps are.

Self serving comments about throwing the mirrors away and fitting ugly after market ones are not useful. Neither are other gratuitious comments about curing the droops, thank you.

Tyre Choice

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:43:01 +0000

Hi all,
It's time to get the tyres legal again, 1st replacement so not sure what the best options are, stick with the Yoko's from stock? or are there other options? Mainly road driving (daily drive) with occasional track.

Probably been discussed before so point me to the thread or comments welcome.

Cheers

Evora Update

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 11:14:51 +0000

Some news re my Evora and its new exhaust.

Yesterday I bit the bullet (bought the billet?) and installed the Lotus sport exhaust.

It makes an enormous difference, the car is still sensible with a light burble at 0-3000, then it starts to howl all the way to 7000 (or so).

Very nice, much like a carrera S or Boxter S. Also a 5kg weight loss.

There is also a little more punch (prob because I hang on to the gears longer).

I've also had some fiddling on faults, alarm relay recalls, boot release relay recalls (mine were fine) and the gear lever shim, clip arrangement was re-tensioned.

It now has a very solid change thats satisfying rather than something to accept as iffy. I don't get reverse engagement airswings anymore.

Plus.........sigh, they plugged in the speakers......

Isofix baby seats are illegal in Oz so I have ordered one from Recaro in UK, 300 bucks and safer than AU standard.

For those in Brisbane I did Glorious the other day behind a friend in a GT3 and was able to keep up, a huge surprise for me until I remembered how frightening his car is.

The Evora flatters

I am told only 4-5 have been sold, I can't see why, I love the thing and it is beautiful, I go way out of my way to find curves and simply love every minute.

Cheers,

aido

Hands Free

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:45:42 +0000

When I get my car next week I will be using it as a daily driver, and every now and then need to make calls whilst driving, whats the best solution for handsfree in an Elise, a solution that works roof on or off will be good.

As I see it there are a few solutions, 1) Get a bluetooth stereo 2) But a bluetooth headset or speaker 3) Just use headphones with a built in Mic.

Whats does everyone else do when they need to make calls from the car?

Cheers Sean

Touch Up Paint

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 21:29:04 +0000

G'day gents,

Where can I get some genuine Lotus touch up paint?

Cheers
Steve

North To Alaska

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:25:57 +0000

Currently having quite a busy year of competition in the car this year, but have decided I need a new challenge in life and with the car for the immediate future. Can't afford to become complacent, but another year sitting here doing sprints or hill climbs for some reason just isn't ringing my chimes at the moment.
So I have decided I am going to drive Elsie to Fairbanks Alaska in 2012. I can’t leave in the time frame I need to for the short Alcan Highway weather window due to commitments to Lotus 2011 at Easter next year, so therefore it means I will leave in very early 2012. That will allow me time not only to prepare the car properly for the trek, but also to save some money for it, and maybe even do a quick local tour (Darwin / Alice Springs ?) at some stage to make sure everything is working properly !
There are lots of things to think about, but I plan to keep a kind of running progress account here, and maybe closer to the time start an online diary of some kind so I can post photos and info of the trip on a day to day basis. At the moment everything is very rough and only just starting to come together, but nevertheless here is a general idea of where I am at the moment :-
• Plan to quit all competition after the end of the Tighe Series in December, and save money by not competing (or buying new sticky tyres etc) any more (cold turkey ?).
• Will gradually return Elsie to road spec – Engine is not an issue (although it will be fully checked) but geometry and tyres and brake pads are the 3 main things I can think of at the moment. Have acquired some 2nd hand Green Stuff pads for the road on a trial basis, so will see how they work after about 6 years on Pagids. Intend to run Toyo T1R road tyres all round on my 340R wheels as these are ideal for such a trip, and not too expensive, with excellent performance. Geometry will be put back to original, with a shim collection en route from Geary – (Andrew kept all mine after they were removed 3 or 4 years ago!
• US Insurance in hand.
• Shipping in hand.
• Route. Still very much open to discussion, but the starting idea is to ship car to LA, and then drive up the coast highway to Laguna Seca in Monterey for a track day (to drive the Corkscrew is on my bucket list). Then almost due East to Denver to go to Pikes Peak (also on my bucket list !).
• After that, wander north through Wyoming and Montana to the islands just north of Seattle where my sister lives.
• After that, head north through Canada via Prince George and Whitehorse to Fairbanks. Then just a short 2-300 mile dirt road to the Arctic Circle. Depending on the road condition, will then decide whether to push on north just for fun, or turn back. A rough calculation shows this will be about 10,000 kms so far.
• At this point the decision will be made whether I (and the car) have had enough, or whether we then move into Part 2, which is to cross Canada to the east coast, from where I would ship the car on to UK, and eventually bring it back to Aus from the UK. Crossing Canada would add at least another 5-6000 kms, and it remains to see what happens in Europe.
So that is the plan which I am working on. As it all firms up I will keep you posted, and of course any ideas are welcome ! I have driven a lot in the US and Canada in the past, so I know most of the basic dos and don’ts, but if anyone has any good ideas of things on this route, always happy to hear them.

Lastly, the reason I am stating my intentions publicly are simple – Like when going on a diet or giving up smoking, if you don’t tell anyone else about it, it is too easy to backslide. By making my intentions public, I will hopefully make it much harder for myself to not go through with it ! However, having said that, if the trip does not finally eventuate, then I am comfortable in the knowledge that the planning of a trip like this is 50% or more of the fun, so the next 18 months should be great fun regardless.
And by the way, if you think this is a bit similar to Peter and Karen Horan’s recent adventure in Norway, you would be absolutely correct. We have in fact been talking for some time, and although I have had my Alaska idea for several years now, when I heard what Peter was planning it galvanized me into action for my own trip !! And life is too short not to do things like this for no other reason than “Why not ?” !!
Let the adventure begin !.
G.

Great Start To Lotus Ownership

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:51:07 +0000

Took delivery of the Exige from PhilK on Monday night and drove down to Sorrento.

First drive in the dark and rain was a bit exciting. Hit my first pothole. Yowch.

Woke up freezing and headed off to the ferry and then the Great Ocean Road with a detour to Bells. Nice bit of swell and off-shore with a heap of folk out. Did not stay for long as the winding roads were calling.

First impressions of the car were It reminded me a lot of my first time on a decent road bike after riding a mountain bike. It was also a bit like the first time driving a car on your own. My concentration levels were through the roof trying to sight well ahead (as per track day instructions) and also spot and dodge the potholes, fallen rocks and other hazards (and this was all at about 3 tenths staying within the speed limit).

The Great Ocean Road has taken a fair old hammering from the weather, traffic and rockfalls since I drove it in December last year. Lots of warning signs but fortunately no water actually flooding the road. Potholes everywhere and there is a new road mending technique where they just shovel some bitumen into the hole (piled up a bit) and then let the punters drive over it to compress it. Only made the mistake of running over one of those little heaps but the noise of bits and pieces flinging off the wheels and tray went on for about 3 minutes afterwards.

Quite a bit of slow traffic on the best windy bits and also a surprise Koala eating right on the bitumen edge of the road with a throng of tourists all over the road trying to take photos. Some very big dead roos on the road further along but the only other live animals I spotted were rabbits after dark. I guess a rabbit would not do the front end of an Exige any good but better than a roo.

Pulled in at the 12 Apostles for a look before they all fall down. It was before middday but plod was waiting at the entrance and made me blow in the bag. One cop started checking out the car - "Are these tyres legal sir" "Not much tread" "Too many track days" but they waved me on.

I wound up doing about 1,000 kms in 24 hours. The last few times when I took a break and after I got home, I felt like a sailor returning to land, very wobbly on the legs.

First impressions:

Car's abilities exceed the driver's. It will be a while before I can push this car anywhere near its limits;

Fun;

Stage 2 exhaust is sweet. Lively enough when you want it to be without being unbearably loud or droning sitting on the speed limit. Some nice pops and burbles.

Basic seat was OK for such a long trip, most of it on poorer road surfaces.

Steering rack is very quick.

Having driven DSG in my GTI for the last 10 months, the gear shift felt sweet. The spring loading seems just right.

It seems to happily pull away in any gear from quite low revs. Pottering along through towns on the speed limit was no problem. Getting onto and staying on the hot cam is difficult if you want to keep your licence.

Lack of a sun visor was painful for about 30 minutes beforeclouds nd rain solved the problem. I must put a peaked cap in the car and will think about getting one of those Lotus stickers for the top of the windscreen.

Had some bad weather and wipers and demister worked fine.

Did not bother with the radio for the entire trip The user manual for the radio is about twice the thickness of the car manual. I read the Elise/Exige car manual from cover to cover on the ferry. You would only get through volume 1 of 5 of the VW manuals in the same time.

Car is a huge drawcard. Had people chatting to me about it pretty much every time I stopped. I guess this could get tedious after a while. Parked up in a country town alongside the 4 wheel drives and utes, it really stands out. Saffron yellow also makes it hard to miss. No nutters until Adelaide where a young gun in his GTR sat alongside me for about 2 kms desperate to race.

Now I have to work out how to wash it and get it registered in SA. Hopefully this goes without any glitches.

Thanks to everyone on here for your tips. I thought I saw a thread on here where you could donate to the costs of the site but I could not find it again. I think I have got good value and the questions will continue so i would like to put something back. Is the donation thread still here somewhere? [Edit - I found it]

17" Wheels Up Front

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:03:11 +0000

Has anybody fitted (or heard of anybody fitting) a set of 17” rims on the front of their car?!

Reason I ask is that I now have an Exige front clam, so bought a set of Exige wheels (pic below, courtesy of Alex ) as the standard 5.5J 111R front rims get lost on the wider clam up-front.

I do love my 111R ‘spider’ wheels though, and thought maybe if I procured another set of 111R rears, I could have 17” all-round with AD07 road tyres, and save the 16/17 Exige wheels on R-Spec rubber for track stuff (even though the Exige wheels are heavier... )

I guess the questions I have are:

- With 7.5J rims (with 225 tyres), being a full 2 inches wider than the stock fronts, will the wheels turn full-lock in the arches?
- Will the hubs fit / would I need spacers or other hardware?
- Would the increased circumference of the tyre affect the odometer / speedo output, or is that all measured on the rear wheel speed?

I have adjustable suspension, so should be able to change the ride height to accommodate the larger wheels…

Cheers,
Adam

http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/9706/img5102copy.jpg

Lotus Motorhome.

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:54:14 +0000

Topgear.
Tonight.
Lotus Motorhome.

what more can I say?

I hope this isn't the new direction for the paris unveiling.

SM.

Who Needs Heaters?

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 20:44:29 +0000

I drove the 340R to work today for the first time in ages. Must get it out more because it is such a nice car and so much fun.

It's currently 1C here but a beanie and jacket takes care of that. Spring in coming too.

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100374/340r/web.jpg

Anyone else drive an S1 today?

Figjam Rally

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:20:11 +0000

anyone done one of these before ??? worth doing ?

seems a little sketchy on detail is my only concern ...

http://www.mountainmotorsports.com.au/

Car Cover For 2005 S2 Exige

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 01:54:46 +0000

Hello again,

The big day approaches after a few hiccups . Pick up the car early next week and hopefully drive home to Adelaide on the Great Ocean Road if this s*%t weather ever blows over.

I need to get my hands on a decent quality outdoor car cover for the Exige and was wondering if there was a brand/type I could buy while in Melbourne that will fit well.

Can anyone recommend type/size?

I have tried to buy online and gave up after getting to the checkout (or even processing the purchase) a couple of times only to find out they don't ship to Australia.

Is there a shop in Melbourne I could pick one up from?

Hand Gesture While Driving The Elise

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 22:32:13 +0000

G'day gents,

So while driving home yesterday a ute full of high vis vest workers drove past me and as they drove passed one of the guys at the back stuck his hand out and made this gesture.. And No I wasn't speeding. It was almost bumper to bumper so I couldn't speed even if I wanted to. It was a crack up though.

[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v307/boostboost/rta-pinkythumbnail.jpg[/IMG]

Having owned the car for less than 2 weeks, is this a common occurrence? Or is the tool just being what he is... A "TOOL"

Cheers
Steve

Custom Plates

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 22:25:38 +0000

On Tuesday the 3rd of this mouth Vic Roads started putting number's before letters on custom plates.

So plates like 1 LOTUS came up for sale

Only two of these with the word LOTUS in it are still available

5 LOTUS
6 LOTUS

The rest have already been sold

and yes one set off these plates are on there way to me

Phone Charger?

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:24:41 +0000

I am sure this is a seriously stupid question but here goes. Is there a lighter or anything else in a 2008 Elise which you can use to charge a phone?

Brand Loyalty ...

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:59:28 +0000

with recent talk at home of a replacement car for swmbo and alexs g/f purchase just wondering .. do you have real brand loyalty ???

my feeling is yes .. i buy on brand loyalty as well as the cars being good and only really want a lotus , a renault sport or a bmw in the garage , with a tolerance for mitsu [ the mighty good evo + prior happy pajero ownership years back ] and neesan [ mentally good gtr + its owned by renault ]

phill has a loyalty to neesan . anyone else have loyalty or is that history and we'll buy any brand these days ? [ except toyotas and lexus sedans , of course ] .

alexs g/f went to buy a bmw and the deal fell through so parents took her to 'their 'audi dealer and now her and both parents have audis . i know a guy who had an early audi quattro and hasnt ever had any other brand since the late 70s , even though some of them were crook and depreciated like stones [ his 200 turbo anyone ? ] . my dad had fords . swmbo dad only had fords .

is that normal these days ?

I Need Help

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:42:44 +0000

In a couple of Weeks I have to go back to the Canberra and collect the Elise. Can someone tell me what I need to do to get it registered in NSW? Current owner is happy for me to drive it back to NSW on the ACT plates, I know I need to get a blue slip, but in what order do I do things?

Also regarding insurance, do I get it insured on the ACT plates and then change the policy to the NSW plates once registered??

Thanks Sean

Exige Wheel Alignment?

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:03:26 +0000

I have received a report following a wheel alignment on the 2005 Exige which is not easy for a technically disabled doofus like me to understand.

The report shows inital measurements, target data (which I assume are the range within which measurements should fall to meet manufacturers spec) and final measurements after the alignment.

Items highlighted in the report in red (outside target data) after the alignment relate to rear camber and cross camber and front castor and cross camber.

Rear shows final results for left camber in red as - 1⁰ 25', shows right rear in green as - 1⁰ 58'. Target data suggests this should be - 1⁰ 48' plus or minus 12'. Is this difference between right and left or the fact that left side is outside the target range an issue or are these differences of minor importance.

No doubt a related result is rear cross camber, with target of 0⁰ 25' and final result in red of 0⁰ 32'.

Front also shows Castor target of +3⁰ 48' plus or minus 18' with final results in red of 2⁰ 48' for the left and 2⁰ 51' for the right.

Front cross camber is also in the red with a target of 0⁰ 12' and final result of 0⁰ 16'.

Is there anything in these results which I should be concerned about or are these very minor in terms of impact on handling, braking, tyre wear etc.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Lotus Officially Recognise Honda Power Is The Way Forward

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 21:31:27 +0000

Lotus officially recognise Honda power is the way forward

http://kvracingtechnology.homestead.com/2010/184R5739.JPG

http://kvracingtechnology.homestead.com/2010/MWY_2892_op_800x535.jpg

http://kvracingtechnology.homestead.com/2010/08SP0498_op_800x533.jpg

Confirmation Of Model

Sat, 07 Aug 2010 14:32:14 +0000

I have bought a 2005 Elise R, can I just confirm when ordering from Elise Parts the model is known as the 111R??

Cheers Sean

Lotus Type 125

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:00:57 +0000

Will be interesting to what comes of this..

http://www.lotus-central.com/en/news/524-world-premier-of-lotus-t125-the-ultimate-track-and-race-car.html

S1 Clamhinge

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:10:00 +0000

Well I don't think anyone has done a tilting clam kit for the S1 so I want to try. I have a willing helper with an S1 Elise over here. Does anyone know where I can get instructions for rear clam removal?
Thanks
Richard

Race Car Engineering - Lotus Special

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 05:10:12 +0000

Just received the September edition of Racecar Engineering which I subscribe to via Zino (much cheaper than paper) and there is a large Lotus feature. T127 F1, Evora Cup and story on Colin.

In Memory Of My Old Cars

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 23:54:42 +0000

For many years in the UK my cars all had the same and matching plates, so to keep the tradition going with my soon to be aquired Lotus, I have Just purchased S33AAN from the RTA. Now to find a car:-)

http://www.seans-photos.co.uk/Other/My-Cars/DSC0396/338388244_C5W9P-M.jpg

http://www.seans-photos.co.uk/Other/My-Cars/DSC8424/338388408_Sc8mq-L.jpg

Www.aussie-Elises.com Finally Gone

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 22:29:05 +0000

Have I got the URL wrong or has Geoffs www.aussie-elises.com finally disappeared, along with all that great old technical content?

Lotus Dealers

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:08:06 +0000

I have been looking to purchase a used lotus for a while now and have spoken to several dealers about used cars etc, and not one dealer I have spoken to has any suitable used cars available, and most either hold on to there demo cars for a while, or ask full price for them.

I am in a position where I have a car to sell before buying, thus purchasing from a dealer would make everything easier and quicker as I could trade my old car and move into a Lotus. There are a few Elise S's in dealers, but I want to use the car on track and understand these are not the best starting point. There are also a number of good cars available privately, but this is very time consuming as I have to sell my current car first, then in most cases go out of state to see the car.

Surely it's in the Lotus Dealers best advantage to get a share of the Used Market, they could have more maintenance work etc. Or is it that the Lotus Market here is so small and niche it just isn't worth it for them? On carsales there is an ad form Lotus Sydney looking for used cars, but they have nothing available.

Frustration is just getting to me I guess as the whole process of buying cars here is different to what it was in the UK. Over there I could of found a car and had it within a week.

Cams Log Books

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:01:55 +0000

Has anyone who bought one of the 2004 lotus Elise Trophy Cup race cars from Lotus Australia ever received with their car a CAMS logbook.
I was told by Lotusw Australia that they had no logbooks.
A few weeks ago at an event i met a CAMS official who told me that he was involved in logbooking all the cars that raced.
Can anyone shine some light on this.
Steve

Creature Comforts

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 08:51:29 +0000

I adore the no frills, bare approach of the Lotus...however, having just spent a few days in a hire car I can't stop thumbing the non-existent buttons on the steering wheel to adjust the radio volume.

Apparently I can live without air con, ABS, power steering, servo'd brakes, a waterproof cabin, a decent boot, parking sensors, cruise control etc., but I must have little buttons on the wheel for the radio.

If you could just have one modern creature comfort in the Lotus, what would it be?

Dishonest Lotus Dealer

Sun, 01 Aug 2010 09:52:42 +0000

My Elise is still under warranty and I would like to have it serviced at a Lotus dealer, at least while it is still under warranty, but where do you take your car for a service when you know that the local Lotus dealer is dishonest?

I am happy to explain this dishonesty after the second car that is involved in this deception is sorted out.

What If There Was No Lotus

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:26:13 +0000

Imagine the scene. It's London, around August 1927, bedtime, and Mr Chapman has a twinkle in his eye. Unfortunately, in this alternative reality, Mrs Chapman has a 'headache' and Mr C goes to sleep that night without getting any action.

No little boy was conceived that night, no baby Anthony Colin ever came into this world and, as a result, Lotus Cars never was.

Fast forward to August 2010. You, meanwhile, are the same age, with the same lifestyle (marital status, kids), living in the same place with the same disposable income. You have the same love of cars and motorsport.

The question, with today's current crop of sportscars, what do you think you''d be driving today if there was no Lotus???...

For Anyone Who Does Track Days..

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:05:57 +0000

I don't know if this has been posted before, but a must watch for anyone who does Track Days

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7iUKaPlBl8

Hardtop

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 13:48:32 +0000

Hi everyone,

Does anyone know if a brand new hardtop ordered by the dealer from Lotus, UK, is delivered painted or just in primer (for subsequent painting by the dealer)?

Thanks in advance.

EDIT: have just received confirmation from Lotus UK that the hardtop would be supplied painted in the colour ordered by the dealer. Therefore, if the dealer orders a hardtop for a starlight black car, they would order a hardtop factory painted in starlight black, right? Not, for eg, in red?

I'm sure that's also what I was told by the salesman when I ordered my hardtop (it would be supplied by Lotus in starlight black).

Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

Green Slip Prices

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 04:34:18 +0000

So today I'm doing the on-line rego thing for my 4x4
Gathered up all the Paperwork, Rego Papers, Green-slip renewal, that the nice folks at QBE sent through the post
to remind me it's that time of year again.
Green slip price on this years renewal notice from QBE is $591

Hop on the motor Accidents Authority website @ http://prices.maa.nsw.gov.au/index.html
Great place to get the lowest price

Type in the Vehicle and suburb details
Low and behold I find a lower price $491, but get this, It's with QBE
Purchase a new green-slip on-line with QBE and save $100
WTF
Why is the Posted out renewal notice $100 more expensive?

Anyway worth checking out the prices on-line
Lowest price for my 4X4 $491 with QBE against the highest @ $691 with AAMI

Canyon Red Elise For Sale In Brisbane

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 22:17:15 +0000

Does anyone know anything about this car for sale in Brisbane? Anyone on here trade it in?

http://www.carsales.com.au/all-cars/dealer/details.aspx?R=8939518&__sid=124625A09B7C&__Qpb=true&Cr=2&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32%7c1%7c%7cpCar_PriceSort_Decimal%7c1%7c%7cpCar_Make_String%7c0%7c%7cpCar_Model_String%7c0&keywords=&__N=1216%201247%201282%201252%201246%204294965279%204294965277&seot=1&__No=15&__Nne=15&trecs=19&silo=1011

Paint Touch Up

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:50:56 +0000

Morning all

I'm about to head off to Melbourne tomorrow to pick up an 05 Exige NA (only one more sleep!). Has anyone used a paint repairer in Sydney to touch up nicks and scratches on their Lotus??? Lots of dudes out there...bit nervous about who I give it to. Nothing major...small nick near the rear wing and another on drivers side door.

Any experiences/suggestions would be most welcome.

Cheers
Pete

Got One - More Help Please

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 23:31:19 +0000

Thanks to everyone for the very helpful info provided in response to my posts and PM's.

I have now signed up for a 2005 N/A Exige and subject to final technical inspection and service it should be in my possession very soon . As a friend said to me after about 15 years of all talk and no action - "About bloody time".

Will spend some time in it before I decide which mods/upgrades to make but I would like to do a few small things straight away.

I would appreciate any tips you can give me on the following:

Dashbag? - I have seen the Blackwatch dashbag but the shipping costs are murderous if that is all you buy. Is there a local source of these or alternative bags? How often do AE folk do a group buy from Blackwatch?

Spare wheels? - The spray can might get you home if you have a minor puncture but my experience with similar products for my road bikes suggests that you can't always rely on it, especially for a major tyre issue. The group buy on at the moment looks like you can get a nice set of spare wheels at a good price. I would not want to have a tyre failure and be forced to get a flat bed truck to rescue me or leave the car wherever it might be while I took the wheel off to repair/replace the tyre. Do most of you keep at least a spare front and rear at home in case of a major flat or do you just take your chances?

Fire extinguisher mount? Has anyone got the SSC fire extinguisher mount? Is this a simple instal for a dope like me (un-handy man)? Are there any other options for mounting a fire extinguisher for track days I should consider which avoid the need to drill holes in the floor or body?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Lotus Elise 2004 S2 Workshop Manual

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:52:32 +0000

Hi i have just purchased a 2004 K series engine s2 and would like to know how to get a workshop manual on this model on disc or a download.
Any help would be great.
E mail. sdonka@bigpond.net.au

Dyno = New Car

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 04:22:48 +0000

Spent the day at the dyno on wednesday, and achieved a very pleasing 160.8 kw ( 215 hp ) at the wheels.

http://www.host32.com/Elise/bm1337160.jpg

feels like a new car, again, so much more torque in the low end of the rev range. new version of closed loop boost control has worked wonders. it kept making power (170kw) at 7500rpm with no sign of flattening off, but wanted to keep the reliability and opted for a fatter tune at the top end (7200rpm) where you can see the power curve flatten off.
Given stronger internals, it will just keep going !

For those not familiar to my car:

elise S 2007 (1zz-fe engine)
Rotrex supercharger, water to air intercooled, 10.3 PSI at 7000 rpm (7100rpm limit)
630cc injectors
innovate wideband o2
fuel surge tank & boost referenced pressure reg
Vi-Pec V88 full stand alone ECU - controls everything from fly by wire throttle to engine fans and aircon.
6 speed 2zz gearbox & Exedy HD clutch
stiffer engine mounts (inserts)
lots of other chassis related stuff stuff.

Exhaust For S2 Exige S

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 08:33:48 +0000

Hi folks, anyone here know of an Aust source for a straight through exhaust exiting above the diffuser through a rear panel delete?

Aiming to clean up rear aero and drag with a cleaner and longer diffuser. For the hell of it mostly.

Advice welcomed.

Kuhmo V70 Pressure?

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 14:55:03 +0000

Noticed some big cracks in one of the AO48's tonight, since I've already had one fail I'll put the Kumho's on that have been in my lounge room for sometime.

What pressure do I run in them on the highway, and for 1km street sprint / hill climb?

The car is an Exige Cup 240 and geometry is setup with the standard Exige settings.

I was running the AO48's at 27psi cold with good results.

Top Gear Download..

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:00:58 +0000

Been Downloading TG Episodes with ease from Final Gear site for a while but when downloading
the latest Torrent for S15 E4.......NO GO WHEN TRYING TO ACCESS......

What other sites are you guys getting the latest TG episodes from......

Lotus Elise In Fifth Gear

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:32:44 +0000

Latest Lotus Elise is in Fifth Gears current episode with Beddo's favorite Vicky. Also has the Ferrari 599 GTO.

Twin Clutch For Lotus?

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 06:35:01 +0000

Patent applied for in England.

Lotus Twin Clutch

Motor's Hot Tuner Challenge

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:45:02 +0000

Last year's was apparently a massive hit with the readers and this year the mag has had a ridiculous amount of workshops doing whatever they can to pitch their cars in this year.

I can't say much cept to say they've booked 3 of their main shooters (including me luckily) to cover the event based on the sheer number of cars thats going to be there compared with last.

Anyway I looked at the entries list and it looks like Simply Sports Cars have managed to get an Elise in this year which I find really exciting.

Watch me sabotage the other cars in the test, then put the Elise on the front cover. First Motor cover with an Elise? hahaha

Anyway - Any details about the Elise thats going in? If the 06+ rule still applies then it must be a Yota based car?

Gateway Bridge Toll

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 04:46:59 +0000

The heading might sound NLR but this appears specific to at least my Lotus, hence posting it here!

Anyone in South East QLD use the Gateway bridge without using an e-toll jobby? The reason I ask is because I've had to go over it a few times lately with work and as work is based in Murarrie, right next to the Customer services centre, i've been going in and paying my tolls in person.

Funny thing is every one of my tolls I've paid have not turned up in the system at all. To the point where they've taken pics of the car to try and figure out why I'm sneaking through undetected.

There's nothing particularly special about the plates, other than they are the prestige slimline silver on black. But nothing that other cars passing through don't already have. I thought it might be the angle of the cameras with the overhang of the rear clam, but with the front one in clear sight, you'd expect them to catch that no matter how low the car is.

I bought a tag today to resolve it (well mainly as i can't be arsed even to go to the local centre to pay) but anyone who is paying as they go, you might as well just fly on through!

Insurance Rates

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 20:29:59 +0000

Got my insurance renewal forms through yesterday, and it looks like they are GOING THROUGH THE ROOF.

When I asked why they had just about doubled, I was told that the past year had been a bad year for the insurance industry worldwide with floods and fires etc etc, and that this was reflected in the car insurance rates ( )

Just to give you some ideas, I was with Shannons for a long time and very happy. When I turned that magical age a couple of years ago, I got quotes from Apia and they were like half of Shannons rates, not just with the Elise but also with other cars, RV, house etc - I saved about $1500 a year overall by changing. So I went with Apia.

Now Apia is saying my current annual rate of $513 is going up to $898.20.

So I called Shannons. They have quoted me $818.28. So they are suddenly cheaper than Apia, even though Apia supposedly insure only the "low risk over 50's".

Fiddling on the internet, I now have got the following additional quotes :-
AAMI $770
Suncorp $686
NRMA $1345 ( )
MB Prestige and Lumley SV - Will have to wait till business hours to get phone quotes.

Be interested to know if everyone else is being hit with big increases when renewal time comes round. I shall keep calling and let you know if I manage to find anyone's "cheap" button.
Giles

Orange Elise

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 05:17:02 +0000

Hi All
Does anyone know of the orange Elise for sale in Victoria? Go to http://www.carpoint.com.au/all-cars/private/details.aspx?R=8780094&__sid=1271252C65AB&__Qpb=true&Cr=12&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32%7c1%7c%7cpCar_Price_Decimal%7c1%7c%7cpCar_Make_String%7c0%7c%7cpCar_Model_String%7c0&keywords=&__N=834%201216%201247%201282%201252%201246%204294965279%204294965277&seot=1&__Nne=15&trecs=15&silo=1011 for the advert.
If you do I would be grateful to hear from you. PM me if you prefer...
Cheers

Anyone Know What Car This Comes From? Lotus Ls1 Chassis?

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 13:11:10 +0000

Anyone know what lotus this is?

It was a random post on facebook from one of my friends in england.

She's teasing me.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_BWuL8kG_BTI/TDhw9VOZXzI/AAAAAAAACQE/OaCPR6xH6KI/s800/lotusls1.jpg

SM.

Goodwood Fos - Amazing Lotus'

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:00:28 +0000

my photos are here http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=459345&id=604550044&l=037833af94

note the transit van ... it is a transit body dropped on top of an XJ220!!

also Jim Clark's steering wheel. His Lotus Indy winner was there, driven by Jackie Stewart. First time it had been driven since winning the Indy 500 over 30 years ago (it was driven from the winners circle directly into the Ford museum, where it had remained since), and hadn't been washed :-)

and the JPS + Camel lotus

the rally cars left me speechless (Rohl's Pikes peak car, the Group B's the WRC cars, the Monte Rally minis)

etc
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/06/video-goodwood-2010-taking-the-hill/

etc
http://axisofoversteer.blogspot.com/2010/07/goodwood-festival-of-speed-2010-mclaren.html

saw the Renault5 high speed pirouet - super cool

Bruno Senna driving Ayrton's 93 Mclaren, which was then parked next to Hill's 94 Williams...spooky. Button driving Prosts championship winning McLaren. Fittipaldi driving his championship winning JPS lotus. Surtees driving his championship winning Ferrari. Hamilton driving his championship winning McLaren. Hakkinen driving the championship winning W196 Mercedes silver arrow. Stewart driving his championship winning Tyrrell. McNish driving his LeMans winning R15, about 6 other LeMans winners driving their cars. Biasson driving his championship winning Lancia. Schwantz on his 93 championship winning Suzuki. Agostini on his championship winning MV Agusta.

etc
the rally stages were incredible too seeing the cars in action

http://community.evo.co.uk/users/Si/photos/index.cfm/Goodwood-Festival-of-Speed-2010/thumbs/

oh yeah, and leaning against the current Audi R15 Le Mans winner from a few weeks ago (trying to get a photo of the C111 gull wing) and they started up the Audi with no rear body work! Never expected to be that close to a running current world beater....

Lola 8.3L CanAm was best sounding car there by a mile. 599 GTO best sounding road car (pagani a close second place)

Alfa Tipo 33 stradale most beautiful road car ever? not much would come close... 250TR, Aston DB2R, MP4-4 or 300SLR most beautiful race car ever?....

Fibreglass Repairer In The Illawarra

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 05:40:46 +0000

Cracked the front clam underneath the numberplate - driving into a car park. Whoops.

Anyone know of any repairers in the illawarra? Otherwise where's a good place in sydney, preferably south or inner west.

Also, anyone have a ball park of what the additional cost would be to get the whole front clam resprayed to fix all the stone chips?

Caterham Hill Climb

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:06:28 +0000

Came across this on youtube. Bloody quick Caterham and a bloody quick driver! It's a k series and I have to admit it sounds great! Not much room for error on the first part of the run...

Glass Body Repair ......

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 22:38:51 +0000

Looking to repair some f/glass damage on my car .....would greatly appreciate anyone pointing me
In the right direction in finding a good repairer that specializes in glass bodies in Victoria.....

Rain-Ex Type Stuff

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 12:02:39 +0000

eastons postin the pimp my ride section refers to a new product , aquapel . lasts longer than rain ex apparrently .

this raises the quetion of whether it helps with driving [ barry will remember my suggestion of us using it at a wet bathurst

heres a link to a scientific report into the effectiveness of this type of product . http://www.aquapel.com/PDF/UniversityofMichiganStudy.pdf

it works . they like it . '' significantly improved driver visual performance ''

easton .. where did you get the aquapel ? their usa site says they dont export and it looks like a ''must have'' for phillip island in august .

Lotus Typeface Needed

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 10:13:54 +0000

does anybody have the "lotus" script as used on the back of the s1 elise/exige? have someone willing to make a vinyl but realise i only have the curved "exige" script

thanks
jon

email - mrhatmostly@hotmail.com

Elise Front Clam Eta

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 01:12:19 +0000

Ok so a still learning, unlicensed driver didn't stop in time and pulled out of a car park just as I was going past and I t-boned him, it was a slow speed impact but front clam was ruined...

Now this was over 6-weeks ago and I'm still waiting on a front clam to arrive. So if you've ever bought a new front clam, how long has it taken for this part to get to you?

Track Prep Costs

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:31:21 +0000

As per my previous post, I am looking at some local used NA Exiges vs the import option. There are UK cars with everything I would need to get out on the track but the local cars I am looking at have standard seats (no harness slots), no harness bar or harness.

Initially I am only considering "non-race" track and road events but who knows where that could lead.

I would be looking to at least add a harness bar, a matching pair of seats with harness slots and a harness for driver.

Can anyone give me a very rough estimate of what I might spend for these items including installation?

Many thanks for any info.

Importing Exiges

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:09:57 +0000

Apologies if this post belongs in the wanted to buy/sell section.

I am looking at the SSC import option for a used Exige. On a simple price comparison with cars for sale on the local market it is no contest with the favourable exchange rate.

There are quite a few fully loaded cars for sale on Pistonheads with very low mileage including examples "never tracked" (you have to wonder why a car was bought with the performance and track pack including harness if it was never going to be tracked!), "never driven in the rain" etc.

I have had a few people raising the FUD factor based on the UK weather, salted roads etc.

Has anyone on here purchased an imported and complianced car through Lee and, if so, can you give me any feedback on the experience?

Anyone heard of any problems with bringing a car in from the UK?

I would also be interested how you handle the finance?insolvency risks when buying this way.

Please PM me if you would prefer to do this off-line or are willing to have a chat on the phone.

Thanks for any information or assistance

Richard

Guess The Car

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:26:53 +0000

This looks like an Elise steering wheel, but what's the car?
Clues:

It's Revolutionary
It's from a famous designer
It's just been released

http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/280610-b-gormd.jpg

New Heater Matrix

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 13:58:45 +0000

I just sourced a new heater Matrix for my S1 Elise. Demisterman in the UK sold me a copper and brass one with postage for less than the cost of one from eliseparts or eliseshop. It arrived in less than five days. Great communication, excellent service, great price and looks like a quality part. Even came with foam seal tape for the edges. So if anyone needs a new one, highly recommended.

http://www.demisterman.co.uk/

Elise Does Alps To Arctic

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:17:31 +0000

Hi guys

Just thought you might enjoy the story of taking an Elise 111R from the Swiss Alps to the Arctic Circle, just because it was there to be done.

We're both Australian, but have been living in various Northern Hemisphere countries for a number of years (because we could) and intend to return to Oz next year (and bring the well-worn Elise with us).

www.blackhumoursteeringcommittee.blogspot.com

Cheers

Peter

The Puppy Thread

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:38:24 +0000

go on , get em out and on here .

bonus points if you have 2 .

this is an equal opportuniy non discrimatory forum so pussy pics , bird and fish photos are welcome too .

[ note ; rats hamsters and reptiles can start their own thread ]

Carbone Lorraine Rc5+ Or Ferodo Ds2500?

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:21:09 +0000

I know the Ferodo DS2500 has been tried & tested and have some fairly good reviews; but has anyone tried the Carbone Lorraine RC5+ ? Both similarly priced. will be needing a new set after this weekend.

Getting Rid Of The Stereo

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:40:53 +0000

Hey Digs,

Has anybody gotten rid of their stereo?

Thinking about it, phones now can do music, FM radio, GPS (or A-GPS) and ..errr... be a phone...

So why have a Stereo? Just a 1/8" plug to a small 12 volt amplifier going directly to the speakers, and a mike pick up for the phone. Anything else you need? (connection to the aerial..??)

Has anybody done this yet? Why keep a bulky stereo and bluetooth everything? Why not just get rid of the Stereo??

Ta

Winno..

Elise Vs Exige

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:17:12 +0000

Meet our new puppy, Elise. Probably goes without saying it was my turn to name this dog, (she makes 6). Elise may be cute but i reckon Exige is better!

Compliance And Build Number

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:43:48 +0000

Might seem like a dumb question, but where do you find the build date etc on a 2008 Lotus Elise S? Is it behind a panel somewhere?

Are Lotus F1 About To Bloom?

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 10:20:54 +0000

Very nice write up here

http://www.formula1.com/news/features/2010/6/10922.html

Epa Issues

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:58:06 +0000

Hey Guys,
Last weekend i got pulled over for a random breath test in Palm Beach, the cop that pulled me over was a w*nker, that i didnt give any cheek to. Anyway long story short, i got a notice for an EPA. I have a 2002 model Lotus Elise(rover engine) with a standard (optional) exhaust and according to that cop, it is too loud?

Knowing how strict EPA is i know i am going to fail, as my car is'nt quite but is'nt loud either.

Is there anything that Lotus can do? Since this is a standard exhaust that they issued which i assumed would need to comply with Australian standards i.e Emissions/Sound to be legally registered?

Has anyone been in this situation?

Can anyone let me know what they think i should do????

Cheers!!

Melbourne Lotus Expert To Do Inspections

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 02:30:43 +0000

Hi everyone,

I am planning to look at a few used Exiges in Melbourne.

Assuming it looks like a deal can be done, I would want an independent inspection before signing up.

Is there anyone you would recommend to do this? Apologies if this has been done before but could not find anything using search function.

If posting this kind of info is not OK, please PM me with any recommendations (name and contact number would be great).

Many thanks for any info or assistance

Whats Your Tyre Brand, Sizes And Cost?

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 01:48:24 +0000

After looking over the forum and finding varied information on tyre's.
I feel I would like to get everyone's feedback on there preferred Tyre choices, sizes and Costs.

So, is it DZ03's / R888's or V70A's? or is there another choice, and what is the recommended sizes?

I look forward to your replies to help me make my new tyre purchase a lot easier.

Supa

Kumho V70A's Prices. Potential Deal Coming

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:39:30 +0000

I have a source for brand new V70a r-specs in medium compound. I need to know what you've paid in the past. Don't need to know where but, if you want to PM that's fine. Tyres would be bought and fitted in Northern Beaches area. I need to get three full sets of tyres sold to make it worthwhile.

Ta

Jack Mod

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:19:52 +0000

problem:
cant get the hydraulic jack under either the elise or the prb.

fix:
cut off the cup and weld on a square of 5mm plate steel, weld a bead around the outside to make a cup.

result:
a jack that has a with a min height of 95mm - perfect !

http://www.host32.com/jack/jack2.JPG

Single Din Stereo With Integrated Reversing Camera

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 01:20:14 +0000

Hey guys,

When my car turned up from the UK the stereo was missing.

The couple of times I have backed out from my driveway have been scary as I'm so low that I can't see anything past the cars that are parked on the street.

I was hoping to kill two birds with one stone and get a stereo with an integrated rear camera display. I don't really like the idea of those motorised fold out single DIN units so it would be good if there is a solution that will work without having to get one of those.

Apart from the reverse camera, I'm also interested in the following features:
- bluetooth
- iphone input / control
- usb input for audio (perhaps not as necessary if iphone control is ok)

Can anyone suggest anything?

Thanks,

Jeff

Genuine Lotus Paint Protection Kit For S2

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 06:11:41 +0000

Found this all boxed up in my garage in VGC....any idea what they are worth?
Cheers for any tips :]

Heikki Surprise In Canada

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 04:56:40 +0000

One of the surprises was the speed of Heikki Kovalainen in the lead Lotus, who recorded an encouraging 1m 19.969s for 19th.
http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/6/10891.html

Between the F1 and the soccer I will be looking like the walking dead for the next month or so http://aussieelises.com/public/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif

First Look At A Tesla

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 03:46:05 +0000

Ooops I saw something I wasn't meant to talk about.

Nothing was here, move along please.

Win An Elise

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 05:58:08 +0000

Here's your big chance ! The Historic Sports & Racing Car Association, in conjunction with Lotus Aust., are raffling an Elise.

The good news is they are only selling 1250 tickets at $50 each. The bad news is that the car is "refurbished and as new" which means it's probably an ex race car. Still it would be a good buy at $50 !

John

Unrealistic To Have A S2 Eilse As A Daily Driver?

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 06:35:15 +0000

Hi All,

Looking at purchasing a Toyota powered Elise 04/05ish (as I am led to believe that the rover wouldn't be as reliable for a daily??)
Am I being unrealistic thinking I could drive it as a daily driver? My criteria for buying a car was it would be small, economical on fuel and sporty. (Have had things like Mini Cooper S JCW that was modified in to a track car that I drove as a daily for a while)
I was looking at new/demo or even Pirelli edition Golf Gti's but my concern with them is they are so popular that its just like seeing another commodore on the road and nothing special. (Pirelli edition little bit more limited)
I'm still young in my 20's (6 ft tall) and as someone said to me if was I to ever do it now would be the easiest time as I'm fit and healthy and it would be easier to get in and out.

Main concerns: (Getting in and out {I wear a suit during the week}, Air Con during summer and Parking {especially parallel parking with out power steering })

Based in Melbourne and for people familiar with the area work (Ivanhoe) live in outer suburbs (Eltham), the closest I would get toward the city would be Hawthorn a few times a week.

Anyway would love to know your thoughts any info would be great.

Thank you in Advance, Scott.

Honda Powered Elise

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:26:58 +0000

Now this is not a technical thread so i thought I would post it here and not in the Engine section.

But who here has done the Honda Conversion?
I see there is a lot of talk about it, but who has actually done it.

And for those who have done it, how hard is it to do?

Supa

New Toy

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:27:58 +0000

let me preface this with a statement that i'm not thinking of selling the elise.

the background -

I've been researching a the purchase of a 'race' car for some time - i started looking at clubmans, but was put off by the limitation of having to get a prb to race in the prb series.
then looked into mx5's with the plan to turbo / strip etc it - but would need to start out with a reasonably new car in order to be able to race in prod sports as a mx5-sp turbo replica.
then looked into formula fords - for a long time this was the go, cheap to buy, but then got put off with not being able to race with my mates, and the fairly high running costs.
then came back to clubmans ..

went to have a chat with mike barry, importer of westfields, thinking to build a westie with a honda engine as they are eligeable to run in the prb series. but got put off with high costs and then the need to modify it to be 'race ready' but mike had a prb for sale ...

so i bought it

its a little rough around the edges, but nothing a respray & tidy up wont fix - mechanically its all good !
toyota 20v blacktop blueprinted donk
new hollinger 5 speed box
LSD
Koni double adjustable shocks
road registered.
generally all the good stuff ...

so, it'll get a tidy up done, and look out for me on the track soon !!!!

the elise will still be in the csca sprints !

Baz

http://www.host32.com/prb/day1_1.jpg

Car Transport Options - Sydney To Philip Island

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:52:02 +0000

I need to get my sh*t together and work out how I'm going to get the car from Sydney to Philip Island and back for the 6 hour in early August.

Options appear to be (in order of least desirable first):

Option 1: Change wheels over to road tyres, load race wheels onto rack on the boot, drive car for 12 hours to PI, race for 6 hours, change wheels back to road tyres, load race wheels back onto rack and drive 12 hours home.....hmmmm

Option 2: Rent a 4X4 and car trailer, load car onto trailer, drive 14 hours to PI etc etc

Option 3: Find a suitable transport company, pay them a small fortune (but probably not much more than the cost of my time and petrol getting the car there in options 1 or 2), get the car delivered to Melb, fly to Tullamarine, pick up car and drive to PI, race, reverse process...

So, question is, does anyone a) know of another option, or have a recommendation of a transport company? Failing that, has anyone tried renting a tow car and trailer, and if so, where from?

All thoughts (constructive ones anyway) gratefully received

Ordering A Harness From Elise Parts - Which One?

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 01:28:54 +0000

Hi Guys,

I'm not sure which of these i should order can someone please help?

Option 1 - http://www.eliseparts.com/products/show/57/567/fia-approved-harness-black/

Option 2 - http://www.eliseparts.com/products/show/57/564/national-approved-harness-black/

My seat has the 5th point grommet and i was thinking of going for option 1 but not sure?

Cheers
Evan

Almost There....

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:48:50 +0000

So I have been hanging out on AE quietly for a couple of years now, and have finally come to the point in time where I am ready to buy my first Lotus in Oz ( Owned an S1 Elise in the UK as well as a host of other Special cars). I really want an Exige S2, and would rather buy a car originally from Lotus Australia, my biggest problem is colour, I want Orange, Yellow or the Krypton green, I am guessing that only a handful of cars where ever delivered in these colours.

Can anyone give me a rough idea of how many cars came here in these colours???

Cheers Sean

Paint Protection

Sun, 06 Jun 2010 07:19:10 +0000

Folks, as some of you will know I have a very well peppered front clam. This is the result of a fun filled long weekend run with the Fezza boys in Tassie a few years ago.

The front clam is now getting a respray after some numpty reversed into my parked Elise at a recent Vic Nosh up meet. So I thought I'd invest in some paint protection and wanted the considered opinions of the experts on here as to which one to go for and roughly how much I am looking at. As it is an insurance claim I suspect the front access panel may not be resprayed and am assuming I will cover the rest of the clam except this area.

So is it ozicozi or someone else, experiences, costs?

Cheers.

Transporting A Gearbox From Sydney To Melbourne

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 13:20:45 +0000

I have a close ratio gearbox in Sydney that I need to get to Melbourne. It's at David Mackie's workshop and he is investigating an option for me but I thought that I should investigate some contingency plans.

Has anyone used a freight forwarder to transport car parts of this size from Sydney to Melbourne? Any recommendations? I don't have a business account so it would need to be someone that a personal punter like me could use.

My goal is to get it to Melbourne at a reasonable price and I am in no hurry as I am currently on paternity leave with a 2 week old baby and a his 2 year old brother, so I'm sleep deprived and time poor etc. I also probably need to earn some more brownie points for my next track day.

Any other suggestions would also be welcome. Anyone need to get something to Melbourne and want to share costs etc?

Cheers

Korgi

Fuel Tank

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 10:13:01 +0000

Anyone know the thickness and material choices that a fuel tank should use?
Pretty sure I want a bit larger one and want some of those trap doors in it and some fuel cell foam, so giving it some thought...

Ssc Employing

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 02:55:25 +0000

cross post from oz-clubbies

http://www.bestjobsau.com/bt-empd-simplysports.htm

good to see SSC expanding !

Ultimate Accessory?

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 22:57:20 +0000

http://www.graysonline.com/lot/0004-184277/exhaust-whistler-super-charger-turbo-sound

Elise - Rover K Questions

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 13:25:45 +0000

Ok, well I finally have gotten an S2 Elise in yellow. (Rover K)
Some of you already know that as we have been talking about it in the for sale section.

But Guys I really do have some serious questions. Hope for your help and assistance and 2 cents worth.

Firstly - Air induction (Removal of the standard box for a K & N Pod, or modify the Box and insert a K & N Filter inside or other idea)

Secondly and starting to be a bit of a worry for me.
I owned an MX5, when the leads got old it would short out and under load would miss terribly.
Well the bad news is, I got that tonight... What does this mean? It did it a few times and It scared me..
I know im hard on cars, but I hope I didnt screw it up already.

Thirdly - The clutch on this wont last me long. Recommendations for Aust Suppliers or do I just buy straight from overseas?

Fourth - Doing the Thermostat conversion? your opinions.

Ok guys, im putting this in your hands. But lets focus on number 2 at this stage.

Supa

Let's Hear A Cheer For The Ladies

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 07:28:11 +0000

I for one am suitably impressed at the rapid and ever growing contigent of the fairer gender we are accumulating here on AE.

Great to have you all along Ladies and let's see some more of you (out in your cars that is! Pull yer heads in you lot) out on runs or coming along to the meet-ups.

Welcome one and all.

Lotus Festival - Snetterton

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:41:06 +0000

Whos going to the Lotus festival at snetts on sunday 20th june !

http://www.lotus-festival.com/

Ill be there !

Wheel Nut Torque Wrench

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:44:28 +0000

Hey, basic tool kit step 1 I think .. what would you recommend to check your wheel nut torque settings

Any thoughts on lever arm / click type tools

And any particular brands you'd recommend.

Advice appreciated..

I Love My Elise!

Mon, 31 May 2010 05:10:44 +0000

The dreaded HGF struck a couple of weeks ago

Took the opportunity to upgrade the radiator, install the PRRT, did all the belts etc. But what it meant was I was without the car for nearly three weeks. I made do with a Westfield for a couple of those weeks and over the weekend had a Camry on loan from Barbagallos.

Thoughts on those other cars.... the Westfield was a blast from the past (haven't driven it for nearly 10 yrs) and a real hoot to drive if a little less practical than the Elise (which is of course saying something!).

The Camry on the other hand - what a bland appliance for the road... I couldn't get rid of it fast enough!

Slipping back into the Elise was such a relief!

F1 Next Year

Mon, 31 May 2010 03:08:39 +0000

I know its early to be thinking about this but anyone keen to do a trip to melbourne and AE meet and greet. For us out of towners we may want to start considering it early to get decent accomodation especially if we all want to be bundled in the same hotel. Have a few confirmed from QLD so far interested. Anyone else keen? If so I will start doing a bit of ringing around to see what kind of deals we can get. Also any input or suggestions of ticket type, best seating points (bearing in mind undercover would be nice, I have sampled your weather down there), nearest titty bar (gotta keep the lads happy), restaurant to book for a group. All input welcome.
G.

Elise Sport 190

Sun, 30 May 2010 22:06:35 +0000

Hey guys,

I saw pictures of the Elise Sport 190 (S2) and absolutely love it. Anyone ever been lucky enough to drive one or share some insight on it? I've seen one for sale with insanely low mileage (2003) and might be falling for it.

http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1661319.htm

Cleaning Interior Metal

Sun, 30 May 2010 11:28:31 +0000

Hi all,

I've been trying to clean the years of brownish grime from the interior metal floor bits and the grey plastic. So fa I've worked my way up from soap and warm water to windex to full on brake cleaning fluid with a scrubing brush and I can't get it clean. Any ideas with what product and technique to use?

Exige Hot Lap - Nurburgring 24Hr

Sat, 29 May 2010 23:29:10 +0000

http://community.evo.co.uk/users/Stephen-Dobie/videos/view.cfm?videoID=403

Darren.

Rinspeed Scuba

Sat, 29 May 2010 12:34:31 +0000

http://www.streetfire.net/video/fifth-gear-rinspeed-squba_176742.htm

THIS is seriously messed up !

but a good one for a lotus collector as its sure to be VERY VERY rare .

Evo 144

Fri, 28 May 2010 00:17:01 +0000

Worth having a read of the latest evo mag if you can get your hands on a copy. Plenty of Lotus content:

- Full roadtest of new Elise S
- Small announcements re Evora Cup and Hennessy Venom
- Inclusion of Exige Cup 260 in "Road Racers" cover article. They bracket it very much with F430 Scud and VW GT3RS in terms of point-to-point pace. Shame it's in Krypton
- Buying guide on S1 Elise with commentary from Greg @ Hangar 111

And, as always, a great read on other things performance car-related.

Supercar Club Goes Tits Up

Thu, 27 May 2010 23:56:56 +0000

http://www.smh.com.au/business/big-boys-fight-over-their-toys-20100527-whu7.html

thought this deserved its own thread . its queried on exige for auction thread whether the orange one was their car , although usually theirs had very high klms .

interesting biz dispute . beddo and i had a joint membership a year back and enjoyed it . can remember they announced when the clown investor got involved .

we didnt renew as they changed the points system to encourage city driving posers [ high penalty for klms was introduced ] rather than the country driving we enjoyed , getting the cars were they where meant to be .

had an epic trip to the snow in a clk 63amg . the cars got flogged by some members who were a bit like the investor sounds.

was told about running costs , the R8 had a gearbox issue [ warranty luckily ] the fazza needed regular clutchs .. all very exy .

wonder how the case will pan out .. the clown investor has the $$ to drag the case right out . the other guy is a normal decent fellow without big $ to fight in court .

Watch Out Ae

Wed, 26 May 2010 11:48:00 +0000

This photo was reported from Melbourne on the 25th May:

http://www.beddysblog.com/dropzone/found.JPG

Ardc Track Days At Eastern Creek

Wed, 26 May 2010 03:02:51 +0000

Myself and few of my mates in the area have been doing to ARDC track days at Eastern Creek over the last 2 years. I ususally take my old 911 Carrera, to chase a friend in his TVR Chimera. After only having the Lotus at Wakefield, I took my Elise S out to the creek last time as well. I had forgotten how much fun. And it was probably a little quicker than my well set up 911, using the TVR as a benchmark. Do many of the Lotus crew attend these track days? If so, please come and say hi.

Elise Sc Exhuast Upgrade

Wed, 26 May 2010 02:58:09 +0000

Rather than pimping my bog standard Elise S, I am upgrading to an SC. I would still like to improve the exhuast system. Anyone had experience with the Lotus Stage 2 system? Many thanks.

The C511...

Tue, 25 May 2010 05:38:13 +0000

...is a lot of fun on a late Sunday afternoon!

Funny grinding noise coming from the LHR on right handers though...

Europe Quest Part 2

Mon, 24 May 2010 16:43:18 +0000

So its been 4 moths now iv been living in North of france and gaining my experiances on Lotus cars. Its been such an experiance living in europe and learning another language.The winter is finally going away so im not freezing my ass off as much. Here they have good food and GREAT BEER!not to mention sexy women!!!!!!

On the Lotus side of things , when I arrived at the French lotus department , it was such an eye opener. The french automotive industry is a joke , the quality and care for most cars (especially for lotus) are jaw dropping.
Were I was working we also had ferraris and that sought of crap and the quality of work the mechanics were doing was unbelievable . Cars were getting scratched , coming back with problems , it was quite funnny in some ways . But the lotus, caterham department was so upsetting for me , it was so neglected. wrong parts ordered, cars miss treated and they dont even look at manuals or read tech updates cause there all in english and the dam frogs couldn be bothered to try!(very hard people to work with as they dont work at all) We didn have much work and i was beginning to be fed up with this and didn feel i was getting the most of my experience.

I was informed that most of our work was going to a gargae just 30 min away acrooss the border in Belgium to a place called FVH MOTORS. So I investigted more and found that the owner has been invloved in Lotus his whole life. his dad raced the cars back in the 60s and introduced and brought lotus to belgium, he also started lotus club belgium and has now over 450 customers.He is leaving all the dealers for dead! He owns belgium , north of france and holland.
I spoke with people and they say he is a god for lotus in western europe (excl UK)

So i went and visited him and told him my intentions and plans to be a Lotus specialists and funnily enough he offered me a job!
And WOW , the things he does is awsome . everything from old to new to race to engines to gearboxes to restorationsto everything. elans eclats cortinas espritis eliese 340r exiges 211 evoras. he can get new cars from the factory and do warranty work! I am very happy and iv been working there for 5 weeks now and im learning more then i can do with! he has rovers with 250 hp N/A and standard exige toyotas with 320 hp (no gb probs)

the father is pretty cluey for the engines and old stuff and the other mechanic is great for the new and the boss frank (engineer by trade) is great for engineering and chassis set up side of the things. now we 45 cars in for work !!!! tooo much and i finish every day 7-8!!!
Iv done a few social things aswell , all pretty nice people here in belgium.
But its all great and im learning so much .I would like to stay here for a few years and then venture over to uk were the big stuff happens.

I miss oz alot and good sunny race weekends but i know when i come back one day it will all be very exciing !!!!

Cheers
David Lazzaro

http://www.fvhmotors.be/

a photo of half the workshop pack with cars at the end of the day

Anyone Ordering From Elise Parts?

Mon, 24 May 2010 10:10:10 +0000

I am looking to purchase some touch up paint from Elise Parts but the frieght is $53approx for a $17 item approx.
If any Victorians are ordering soon from Elise Parts and is happy to include my item, please let me know.
The other option is if there is a known local supplier for Elise touch up paint in New Aluminium B35. Please advise if there is someone in Australia?
VICKED

Exge Windscreen

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:26:23 +0000

Does anyone out there Know a windscreen fitter that would be prepared to travel to my address to fit a screen to my Lotus? I have the screen and I have removed the front clam, which was way easier than I expected, took under an hour. I am in Glenburn, about 35 mins north of Lilydale. The car is in a garage with power and light but O'Briens said they need the car in a controlled enviroment?!

Any ideas or recommendations would be much appreciated.

Cheers, Nick

Looking For Some Info On Lotus Elise

Sun, 23 May 2010 13:38:26 +0000

Hi all, first post here
Looking for some info on the Elise, have had someone looking at getting one ask me about some stuff, going in for a test drive soonish.
Primarily, when is the latest the current design Elise will be available before it is replaced with the 2011 facelift? This is just for the basic S model. On the Lotus Australia website it says the SC starts coming in July, and the others a bit later. Sent an email but didnt get a reply, maybe cause I only have a hotmail address.
Also, what sort of optional extras are worth getting? Car is not going to be tracked (or really driven particularly quickly) so would the Lotus Traction Control be necessary? Person has had 2 door cars before and said they have tended to slip a bit when roads are wet, and thought this would help with that.
I really dont know much about this kind of stuff, was hoping someone on here is a bit more knowledgable.

Thanks
Marcus

Any One Know This Car

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:38:07 +0000

Hey Guys

Anyone know this car:-

http://www.carsales.com.au/all-cars/private/details.aspx?R=8690972&__Qpb=true&Cr=11&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32|1||pCar_PriceSort_Decimal|1||pCar_Make_String|0||pCar_Model_String|0&keywords=&__N=1216%201246%201247%201252%201282%204294965279&silo=1011&__No=15&seot=1&tsrc=allcarhome&__Nne=15&trecs=50&__sid=126462B3950B

Price seems fair to me, as long as there is plenty of life left in the consumables.

I'll have to find a solution to parking it off the street but there a re a few ways around that.

Cheers Sean

Orange Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

Tue, 18 May 2010 10:50:12 +0000

Following on from the Mothers Day thread:

Who would be interested in getting an Orange TPMS system for $300 from an Australian supplier? That is the price for Sydney pick-up. Interstate will need to add a bit more for shipping (about $20)

Two or 3 people have indicated they are interested. This price is for a very short time only and stocks are limited. If you are interested, please let me know by the end of this week and I will organise an order and a method for deposits and payments.

http://www.linkauto.com.au/website/images/image/TPMS_Product_Group_550p.gif

Aus delivered also means Aus warranty. Recommended retail price on these kits is A$399

I recently fitted the kit along with new semi-slicks on my Volk wheels.

On power up the display can take a minute or two to "find" all four sensors.

I dropped into my regular workshop on the way to Gouldburn to replace the regular air that the tyre shop put in them with some Nitrogen. This gave me a chance to check that all of the senders were correctly placed and compare the readings to a known gauge. The Orange was spot on for tyre pressure. When draining and re-filling I noticed that the readings updated every 3 or 4 seconds. Documentation says the sensors sample every 3 seconds. In normal operation they supposedly transmit every 30 seconds

On the drive down I noticed that 3 of the 4 tyres stayed within a couple of degrees of each other but the right rear tyre was constantly 5 or 6 degrees hotter then the others after I'd been driving for a short while. It is quite a while since I've had the wheels aligned and a lot of suspension work has been done in the meantime. I figure that tyre has considerably more toe than the other side. Fortunately at Wakefield that tyre does the least work and interestingly it was usually cooler than the others on the track.

The Orange has 4 display modes; temperature, pressure, alternating temp and pressure, battery voltage.

Tillett B5 Seats

Tue, 18 May 2010 06:28:21 +0000

Anyone had any good/bad experiances with Tillett B5 seats? Looking at new seats and have it down to the Tillett seats or OME Cup 260 seats (which may be more than I'm willing to spend). (Would love recaros but they don't fit me-length adjustment). The tillett's appear to be nice and light and simple (not sure about the comfort factor). Both the Tillett's and the 260 seats are carbon. Any opinions?

Lotus: A Historical Timeline

Tue, 18 May 2010 03:20:25 +0000

A brief look, with some nice pictures, at the history of Lotus Cars from the American's point of view. I bit thin on information, but it's only a quick read. I love the 'turbo lag' comment!

http://www.caranddriver.com/features/10q2/lotus_a_historical_timeline-feature

Lotus Elise Based Race Car Project

Mon, 17 May 2010 01:05:01 +0000

Hi all, I am new to this forum, but hope that over time I can make a contribution and get some feedback.

I am involved in a project with two mates (both successful race car builders) to build a race car from a 2004 (Toyota Engine/6 speed gearbox) Elise wreck.The car will retain many Elise components including engine and gearbox, hubs and brakes and will use a similar track and wheelbase. We hope to achieve an overall weight of around 600 Kgs, using a tubular, steel, triangulated space frame. The project has advanced to near completion of the frame, suspension and steering (all rose jointed). I will post a pic shortly.

We are getting to a point now, where we will need to sort out some electrical, plumbing and fuel systems for the car. We have the original ECU and a complete wiring loom for the car (much of which will be terminated e.g. 'creature comfort' fittings, ABS etc.

A question at this stage. I think we will need an OBD11 scanner and while I am aware they are available on Ebay, can any one help with info on a suitable tool and what we can expect to pay? Hoping you can help in this.

Extreme Panoramic Photo Of Coconut Run

Sun, 16 May 2010 12:20:38 +0000

Just did the Coconut Run today. Came up with this great idea to take a photo of all the cars and stitch them together. It kinda worked. The joins are obvious. I tried using the photomerge function in photoshop. It failed dismally. Next time I will use a 70mm lens instead of a 17mm and take a photo in front of every car instead of in between every 2nd one.

When I get a chance I'll upload some of the 342 (1.14Gb) other photos.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/9862/montagelineup.jpg

Motor Magazine Laptimes

Sun, 16 May 2010 00:05:08 +0000

Doing a search on laptimes after a great day yesterday I came across this spreadsheet on Motor Magazine track times. It includes various tracks like Wakefield, Winton and Phillip Island, it also has the car, driver and conditions, makes for interesting reading.

Motor Lap times

How Many S1 And S2 In Australia?

Fri, 14 May 2010 07:32:16 +0000

Gents,

how many elise s1 and s2 would there be in australia?? also what would the breakdown between rover/toyota/honda motors be in australia??

cheers

nathan

Lotus Elise Servicing

Wed, 12 May 2010 13:19:29 +0000

My Lotus Elise S is out of warranty and don't want to get raped by Trivett. Where is a good place to do servicing? I am located on the Lower north shore of Sydney.

Elise S Chip & Exhaust Upgades

Wed, 12 May 2010 08:30:59 +0000

Hello all, I am a new member. I have a bog standard 2007 Elise S. I am looking to get a bit more performance. I was looking to upgrade to a supercharged car, but the cost is not worth benefit. Any advice welcome.

Ronins Amazing S2 Exige ... Mag Article

Mon, 10 May 2010 10:49:24 +0000

do you believe in fate ??

was in utah last week at the supermarket , waiting for swmbo to choose breakfast cerael from a selection of 14,000 different ypes .

as always , was drawn to the 400 different car magazines on the shelf .... just happened to choose one called '' Modified '' to lift out of the shelf to flick with a view to purchase , largely as it had a monster evo on the cover '' japans fastest evo '' and given upcoming time attack at e/c thought it would be interesting .

and , upon flicking , located a long very interesting story headed '' FAST as #@%*! ''about ronin [ aka frank profera ] and his highly modded and very very kwik exige . with good photos .

anyway , if i can work out how to scan and post it , will do . its all grey so may be hard to read as a post .

http://www.modified.com/index.html [ this is the link to the mag website , not the article . but theres a lotus in the list of brands to the right and it has their lotus articles from past issues there ]

Lotus Hire

Sun, 09 May 2010 22:28:40 +0000

I received this request from Rob Brown at IBM.
Please, no snide comments, they aren't going to drive them!

>HI there not sure if you can help but thought I'd ask anyway.
I work for IBM, and we have a product called Lotus Notes among other things.
We have a new launch approaching and I am looking at branding via car magnets some Lotus cars and having them parked outside 3 IBM buildings 2 in Sydney one in Canberra, draw back is they have to be yellow or black reflecting our brand colours. So i wondered if your club hired out cars at all for this sort of thing?

looking forward to your response.
Regards
Rob Brown

His email is robertbr@au1.ibm.com

The Perfect Mother's Day Present

Fri, 07 May 2010 06:40:13 +0000

In the current Repco catalogue. Perfect for the wife to monitor tyres pressures as she does laps in the Coles carpark. $399 - ouch! Wonder if it stays on at 200kph down the back straight of Barbagallos?

http://catalogues.repco.com.au/imageicon/REP/PROD/J00507826/C_001/PAGE_003/PAGE_003_OFFER_001C2C53.JPG

Car Involvement Index

Thu, 06 May 2010 21:29:10 +0000

http://magazine.windingroad.com/issue/57/
(other issues available by changing the issue number in the link)
Not a bad online mag. In particular, from the Contents page, bottom RH corner, p191 Involvement Index.
Click on that so see an overview of car ratings.
Go the CUP260

Carbon Fibre Spoiler & Scoops

Thu, 06 May 2010 00:27:29 +0000

Have been thinking about changing the rear wing and side scoops to carbon fibre (more for the look than any possible weight saving ). Noticed that there are some being sold out of Hong Kong on ebay. Exige rear spoiler $350 + $80 postage. Side scoops $220 + $30 postage. Seems cheap, Anyone had any dealings?

Exhaust

Mon, 03 May 2010 07:44:45 +0000

thinking of adding an exhaust just to get a better sound , has any one fitted one off these , and if so could you let me know your thoughts on it

http://www.sector111.com/products/performance/exhausts/larini_sports_exhaust_system_-_sport_style.cfm

or

http://www.eliseparts.com/products/show/39/795/s2-eliseexige-vvti-twin-under/

or

http://www.simplysportscars.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=25&category_id=19&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1

if there is any that i have missed, could you add the link

cheers

Importing A 111R From The Uk

Sun, 02 May 2010 06:22:31 +0000

I want to import a 111R from the UK. I know the personal importation rules require me to pre-own & use the car for 12mths prior to import. I don't comply to this. I understand it is possible to import without pre-owning the car if the manufacturer provides certification that the car complied with Australian design rules at time of manufacture. Anyone got experience with this process?

Lotus Lightweight Passenger Car Concept

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:31:46 +0000

Autocar Article.
Interesting but ugly and too many doors for my liking.
http://cdn.images.autocar.co.uk/612x408FFFFFFF/Car/Lotus/Lotus-284101010184277612x408.jpg

I Think I Need A New Clam

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 00:25:17 +0000

Hilux (luckily without towbar) stopped in front of me, i got on the horn as soon as i saw the reversing lights go on and he just carried on reversing over my front end this was on the princes highway as well !!! i'm sure the po po could 'do' him for neg driving ....

insurance (shannons) contacted him and he said i drove into the back of him - but i have a witness that is happy to testify exactly what happened !!!!

off to SSC this afternoon to get the process underway.

sigh

i think i'll be luckily to get it fixed in time for the May sprint

http://www.host32.com/Elise/front_c.jpg

bad pic, iphone in the dark = not good.

Rear Spoiler

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:07:46 +0000

My Elise turned 1 today , 12 months and 14450kms of fun , so i thought i might buy it a rear spoiler

http://www.elise-shop.com/elise-sc-rear-spoiler-elise-s2-p-956.html

any way my question is how do you work out the freight cost on the elise-shop web site edit just worked it out

The Cup Turns 4 Today

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:07:06 +0000

many happy returns for my blue cup 240 who turns 4 today .

what a wonderful 4 lotus years on the road and on AE . and now on the track in the hpe .

cup is off track to be enjoyed as a fast road car , emr car and generally a delightful , quick , responsive and dead sexy companion everytime i take her out . heres to the next 4 wonderful years in the best car have ever owned .

love ya babe

Wideband O2

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 01:05:28 +0000

to those with wideband O2 sensors - how long do you normally get out of a sensor that is left installed (and used) 100% of the time.

i seem to get about a year out of them, have tried both bosch 6066 and bosch lsu 4.2 (7200) not that cheap at around $100 each time, but a maintenance item i guess...

but should i get more than a year out of them ?

Automatic Ae Paypal Subscription

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:07:56 +0000

I got an email yesterday from Paypal saying.....

You sent $51.02 AUD to Aussie Elises for a subscription payment.
If you have any questions about this subscription, contact:
Business name: Aussie Elises
Contact email: webmaster@aussieelises.com

Now this was somehow set up to be an automatic renewal in Paypal (annoying). I assume this was for the OLD forum when it was running but looking at the URL in the contact email it's the same as the new forum so the new forum has taken ownership over the old url???

So anyway looks like i have contributed to the old forum owner's paypal account so probably a good idea to check your Paypal account subscriptions by doing the following.....

-----------------------------------
Cancelling your subscription
-----------------------------------

You can cancel a subscription up to the day of the next scheduled payment.

If you want to cancel a subscription:
1. Log in to your PayPal account.
2. Click History at the top of the page.
3. Find the subscription in your History.
4. Click the Details link for the subscription.
5. Click the Cancel Subscription button.

What To Do!

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 06:47:58 +0000

Hi Guys,

Going to be out of the country for 4-6 weeks and i was wondering what i am best to do as my lotus is going to be in storage for this period. I am worried that the battery will loose its charge after a week or so without being started.

What are your ideas/suggestions in order to be able to leave it for this time and be able to have it start when i get back.

Thanks,

-Ryan

Chrome Yellow Evora Seen At Trivett

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 06:15:03 +0000

I must say, I am impressed by the looks of the Evora - I saw it walking past Trivett on William Street in Sydney today. It's a breath-taking car they've got sitting in the small showroom there. It's such a shame that Lotus price tags for new cars are as high as they are in Australia. I'd buy the Evora in a flash. But then shedding out AUD 180k really is quite hefty, especially considering the favourable exchange rate at the moment. You can literally grab this car for half as much in the UK and in Germany.

Anyway, the Evora itself has to be one of the best-looking automobiles I've seen in many years. I reckon once Lotus brings the supercharged version of the car onto the market it will nicely compete with the current Porsche 911 lineup - and, mind you, quite successfully, too. Hmm, although that'll be getting close to Esprit territory then .

Car Cover

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 04:43:21 +0000

from time to time these cover's come up on ebay.

[IMG]http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c388/gor6/2010_02220006.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c388/gor6/2010_02220003.jpg[/IMG]

it is an in door cover that is very soft on the car's paint, seem to fit well , so i thought i would let you guys know about it

best bit is that it's red, and we all know red ones are faster

Dealings With Simply Sports Cars?

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 02:12:58 +0000

Hey Guys,

Its me again with the thousand questions.

I've called Lee from Simply Sports Cars and he is looking into importing a car for me. Just wondering if anyone has gone through Simply Sports Cars before and your experiences with them?

Good experiences, bad experiences anything really..

They seem to be all legit and ok, Lee was even willing to talk lotus on his time off poor fella. Haha

Well let me know what you think of them

Cheers,
Codie

599Xx Around The Ring

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:00:31 +0000

surprised no one has posted this before... awesome!

599XX flogging the ring

How To Remove Side Sills?

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 21:51:46 +0000

As i need to take of the front clam for repair/replacing i'm also wanting to take off the side sills and get them repainted.

Does anybody know how it's done or have a link to help? I can't seem to find anything.

Cheers
Evan

Roll Cages In Road Cars ?

Sat, 24 Apr 2010 19:25:58 +0000

i i have a question in mind , can road registered cars have roll cages in them , are they allowed or is it a defect.
your views please

What To Buy With A £70 Elise Parts Credit

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 22:39:55 +0000

Hi, I have a £70 credit with Elise Parts. Its been sitting there for a few months after returning a show cap which didn't fit on my car and I suppose I'd better spend it.

So what would be bang for buck to purchase with it? I'd be happy to add shipping on top.

Thanks

Proton Lotus

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 11:21:46 +0000

http://paultan.org/2010/03/30/proton-satria-neo-r3-lotus-racing-145hp/

Exige Front Clam On Elise?

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 06:48:30 +0000

Well i took delivery of my new elise today only to find that the transport company has smashed the front lower lip getting it off the truck

I'm waiting to sort it out with them so naturally my mind has been ticking over as to the options out there.

Any advice?

Cheers
Evan

Group Buy Rota Slipstrems Eoi

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:28:26 +0000

Have been speaking with Rota Wheels in regards to a group buy on their Slipstream style wheel.
This is a special order as they aren't making them for the Lotus anymore, only for special orders.

It would be for 10 complete sets (2 of which i am buying myself)

2 x 16x6.5 +26 13.5lbs (6.1235kgs)4x100
2 x 17x7.5 +32 17lbs (7.71107kgs)4x100

We can now mix and match colours (with in reason, based on their colour selection).

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4540101647_4a4b7b1412_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4540734752_c4db626d16_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2763/4540086053_eecca09e2e_o.jpg

I have used these wheels on my race car and they are great. They are very light (for the money) and would be great for a second track set or a great looking road set.

Price would be $850 Inc GST for a complete set of 4 wheels + $50 shipping to your door (Eastcoast).
Will take about 4 - 6 weeks

They don't make these wheels anymore (only special order) and shipping is the killer.

If we get 8 more interested parties then we will be set.

I am also happy to arrange 10 sets to suit S1 owners too if I can get enough people involved.

Let me know if you are interested or if you have any questions.

Anthony
0419 044 472

Re-Useable Racing Numbers

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:07:47 +0000

I bought some reuseable racing numbers (thanks to banzais' recommendation) and had them on the sprint meet last weekend. There was several people asking where i got them from.

this is where i got them from: http://chuforiagraffix.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=125&category_id=4&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=5

note: keith from chuforia grafix is very helpful, and i had mine done in style #2 with the wording "Club Lotus Australia" across the top of the number.

Servicing Costs?

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:15:39 +0000

Hey guys, me again.

I'm interested in knowing how much the cost is on average for services for an s2 elise?

being 80k, 100k etc.

Thanks,
Codie

Wheel Offsets

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 05:37:17 +0000

guys

Could use some input on how important or otherwise wheel offsets are when looking for a new set for the Lotii?

And any + or - views on getting wheels that need hub adapters?

And finally - do stock Exige rims fit S2 Elises?

Thanks in anticipation

Pre-Start Info

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 04:29:35 +0000

Hey guys,

Just about to buy my first Elise and have never driven one before.

I was just after some tips on some common issues when driving an elise, this can be any issue you have had while driving and not just technical stuff.

I wont be racing or driving like a lunatic but I will probably be planning a long trip across state.

Looking at 2002 models if that helps.

I have heard people say that driving in the wet can be dangerous.

Any tips you have would be great!

Cheers,
Codie

What Do I Do With My Car While I'm Overseas For 2 Years?

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 11:51:47 +0000

Hi guys,

I've just found out that I've been offered a job in Halifax, Nova Scotia for 2 years. I'm wondering what the hell do I do with my car. I don't want to sell it. If I sell it I'm worried that when I come back people will try to convince me on all the practicalities that I will face and that buy a lotus would be ridiculous. God help me it might even be heavier.

So I think my options are.

1. Keep the car locked up at my parents. Have someone drive it to keep in condition. Just pay the end of my lease over the 2 years.
2. Export the car - is that really an option?
3. Sell the car. Maybe import a new car from the UK (it's just over the atlantic) and drive it for 2 years and then bring it back home. But there is the whole LHD vs. RHD issue. I have no idea of the costs.

Any thoughts?

SM.

3 Stooges.....

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 10:48:24 +0000

http://www.ultima8.co.uk/Animation1.gif

Elise Schematics

Sat, 17 Apr 2010 11:59:21 +0000

Hopefully AE can help me where Google has failed...

There is a US-based Elise parts website that contains a series of blown-apart schematic diagrams of the Elise. These diagrams were great in a "neckbone's connected to the shoulder bone" kinda way. But I've lost the link and can't find the website.

Anyone been to the site and know how to get back there, or know of somewhere else with these diagrams (it's not Sands Museum by the way)?

Motorsport Proposal For Lucas Heights

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:55:49 +0000

Denizens of The Shire, this needs your support.

Quote

Car enthusiasts eye Lucas Heights - have your say
BY DAVID MCCOWEN
15 Apr, 2010 04:38 PM

SOUTHERN Sporting Car Club members will hear a proposal tonight to develop a motor-sport centre at the Peak, Lucas Heights.
Graham Harlow, of Como, has put together a plan to turn land formerly used by Waste NSW into a motor-racing centre and driver-training park.

"Ideally, we'd like to make a motor-sport precinct out there,'' he said.

"There are a couple of other sites we're looking at, too.''

The proposal involves a former landfill site on commonwealth-owned land south-west of Heathcote Road being used for driver training and club motor-sport events.

Mr Harlow said support for his proposal had been spurred on by the closure of Oran Park Raceway at Narellan.

"In recent years Sydney has lost several iconic motor sport-related venues to the ever-increasing urban sprawl,'' he said.

"These venues were host to driver training, club motor sport and the development of motor-safety initiatives.''

Mr Harlow's proposal has the initial backing of the Cronulla RSL Motoring Enthusiasts Group as well as the MG, Volvo, Datsun and Mini car clubs in NSW.

Southern Sporting Car Club president Greg Boyle said he had met Mr Harlow and supported his proposed circuit at Lucas Heights.

"We'd be happy to see a circuit out there,'' he said.

"There's no noise restrictions out there, it's a great place to have one.''

Mr Harlow said benefits of a driver-training centre in Sutherland Shire would include safer roads, tourism and the rehabilitation of wasteland.

"The next step is state government.''

One For Ashton

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 01:48:33 +0000

http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f172/boe-towing-bars-very-limited-supply-68902/

group buy ???

[ have a look at a certain azure blue S1 on the fosc bathurst thread ]

Pistonhead Road Test 2013 Elise S

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:49:29 +0000

http://www.pistonheads.com/roadtests/doc.asp?c=47&i=21810

reinforces my plan to buy an S1 as my next car.... hopefully the 2013 car will change my mind

How Do You Enjoy?

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 13:43:47 +0000

We all enjoy our cars differently and I thought a poll to determine what the Elises of Australia are doing out there would be interesting.

We have 531 members on this forum, some will be past owners, some future.
So for current owners (or owners for the majority of the past twelve months) what is the MAIN focus of your Elise. This is a track focussed poll, with one option for no track/motorsport. This will determine the percentage of motorsport focussed cars and those that enjoy them as great drivers cars. I know it doesn't cover every option/use choose one that best reflects your actual use.

If Regularity is your thing use the sprints option

Regular refers to being registered in (or attending) an annual series/season competition
Occasional means more than once throughout the year

If you do more than one, choose the one that you do the most of.

Motorkhana Eastern Creek (Large Pics)

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 09:01:02 +0000

Went and saw Phill take part in some slalom racing at Eastern Creek. Good to meet up with Patrick and some of the Nissan lads.
Banzai's times weren't up to much but he certainly had the biggest grin out there!

This probably belongs in the Motor Racing section, but anyway... Here's some shots out on the skid pan:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2135/4506869131_7b11aa89b3_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2339/4506869023_f0874cde9c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2110/4507506860_94dbe72885_o.jpg

And some of the other runners:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2093/4507506952_8bb6591c47_o.jpg

Oops..

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2342/4507507070_8248500ef9_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2745/4507507318_49d4aa9cb2_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2541/4506868911_fd17d93628_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4507507190_ec64899e4b_o.jpg

Sydney To Perth Drive

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 08:31:38 +0000

Hi all

I'm going for a return drive from Sydney to Perth in the about 7 days time (do like a long drive) )

Have done it a few times before in a WRX, but this is the first time in my Lotus.

Any suggestions on key points of interest on the way or a place to get a general service in Perth. Will feel better if my baby has fresh fluids before the return home.

Tunnel Nonsense ...

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 07:19:09 +0000

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mW-4Ps3f_UY

Lotus Slotcar Set

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:00:41 +0000

A friend sent me this link:

http://www.slotshop.net/index.php?page=product_detail&id=11975

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn71/Cal289/lotusslot.jpg

Exige For Auction

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 07:00:12 +0000

Noticed Pickles have a 2006 Exige for auction next Wednesday.Orange in colour,supercharged, with 38777km. Rego bjc34f.
Anyone know this car ? Might go cheaply.

Silicone Residue Under Headlight Covers

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 04:27:24 +0000

Hello folks and folkettes,

I bought some shiny new headlight covers to replace the ones I had which were looking tatty. When I removed the old ones they left behind ugly silicone residue on the clamshell. I have spent hours trying to remove it. Boiling water has no effect. I have even tried thinners (very aware that they can eat through paint!) with no success. I used some George WD-40 which softened the residue quite a lot but it will still take the rest of my life to remove it using my fingernails.

I want to make sure that the surface is pristine before I put on the new covers so that I can get a perfect seal. Please tell me that there's some miracle way of removing the silicone muck :-O

I refuse to drive my Elise out of the garage until the new covers are in place. It looks so fugly without them!

Keir

Lotus 2013

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 07:30:49 +0000

I bin thinking....

The Porsche Club of Australia held their nationals at FoSC in Bathurst this year - and they had 150 or so cars turn up from all over the country.

There's something for everyone around Bathurst - fun roads out to Oberon and beyond to Jenolan Caves, wineries, local produce and dramatic countryside by the million square mile...and probably the best circuit in the southern hemisphere to top it off Where they hold L2S licensed events that even muppets like me can enjoy...

Top that off with interesting accomodation options and plenty of local restaurants, and it starts to look a good spot to base part of (or more of) a national gathering...

Might be an idea for 2013 when NSW is next hosting the Lotus National event - whaddya think?

Great Driving Roads In Oz

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 01:59:19 +0000

With my imminent trip over east I am trying to plan some routes that will take in good driving roads (something we are a bit short on over in WA) - think the old AE site started something along this line before.

I am transporting my car to Adelaide then doing SA, VIC, TAS, NSW and QLD. This has been a bit of a last minute thing so havent really had time to properly plan the route.

New Lotus Prices Drop

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 01:20:02 +0000

Hey all,

Good news if your after a new car, the prices of all of Lotus's models have dropped across the board because of the Federal Government's reduction in import tariffs and the current exchange rates.

Here's the new price drops, $18,500 off the list price of a 2-eleven, god if only it was road registertable!!

http://www.themotorreport.com.au/content/image/l/o/lotus_2010_pricing-4bba6e51b4a74.jpg

Theres a full article about it here if you wantot read more:
http://www.themotorreport.com.au/50122/lotus-australia-cutting-prices-on-most-models-including-evora?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheMotorReport+%28The+Motor+Report%29

I'm In Love

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 06:33:15 +0000

Hennessey Venom

Autoskin - Temporary Paint Protection

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 08:19:41 +0000

Has anyone tried this stuff. Looks ideal for track days or one off long road stints provided it doesnt rain. Paint on, powerwash off. I'm a bit worried about what it is doing to your paintwork - sounds too good to be true so probably is.

http://www.autoskin.com.au/

Shipping Parts

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 03:05:41 +0000

Hey Guys,

I haven't shipped any parts out to Auz from the UK yet, how much does it all cost typically?

How is it costed up by EliseParts etc?

I've got bits to order next month but limited funds...

Cheers.

Corner Weight Scales

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:12:52 +0000

How much accuracy is required for corner weight scales ?

1g, 10g, 100g ?

obviously i'm not talking F1 type of requirement, but what are the commercial systems accurate to, and what is actually required ?

cheers

Aubergine Exige Thread?

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 12:42:34 +0000

Hey Guys,

Noticed a new (or relisted) low kilometres 05 Aubergine Exige on Carsales.

I know I read a thread about it some time ago before the forum split.

Any chance of getting it back up?

Or can someone refresh me on the story / details / history?

Cheers
FURY

Elise Parts Group Buy - Vic

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:42:29 +0000

Hi All,

Will be placing an order with Elise Parts tonight, anyone interested in sharing the postage costs?

Phil.

Looking For A Honda Engine?

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 14:45:49 +0000

Storm damaged Civic Type-R up for auction in Melbourne this week. May not may not be cheap but you could sell some of the parts to recoup costs.
http://www.pickles.com.au/servlet/Auction/Item.jpg?id=252737359

Lotus Theme For Firefox

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 08:50:45 +0000

http://www.getpersonas.com/en-US/persona/102518

Nice...anyone want to do one for Aussie Elises ?

Baby Seat In An Elise?

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 10:03:26 +0000

Ok, I've always told the wife that if we ever decided to breed, I could keep the Elise as I could attach a baby seat in the passenger seat to a harness bar.

Suddenly I actual need to find out if this is true and have 6 months to institute the solution

Any one out there with any experience/advice about baby seats in an elise?

ever hopeful
Michael

On Track Classes

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 06:03:41 +0000

What classes do you have on track down in Vic and NSW (and SA / WA if you want !) ? I am not talking about the general CAMS classes, but more Lotus classes.

Reason I ask is that at Lotus 2009 they had the following :-
Pre 1985
1985 - 1999
2000 plus
Racing cars - Open Wheelers and any cars on slicks
Clubmans
Non Marque Lotus

But thinking about it, that seems kind of silly. Why have a cut at 1999 ? There is essentially no difference between a 1999 Elise and a 2001 or 2002 Elise - They all had K series engines.

Given the plethora of Elises now more ramapant at Lotus track days, I was thinking something like this might be fairer :-

Clubmans
Up to 1985
Elise/Exige/Evora on Road tyres
Elise/Exige/Evora on semi slicks
Elise/Exige/Evora on full slicks, + Open wheelers

Then the same again for S/C cars to separate S/C from NA.

Ideas ?
Comments ?

I know we have lots of different cars, but you can't have a class for every car ! Somewhere along the way you have to rationalise somewhere, and we were just thinking that the tyre differentiation makes it quite fair. People who do a lot of work / upgrades on their cars tend to run stickier tyres !!

??

G

'that' Coke Track North Of Sydney - Peats Ridge

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 23:05:35 +0000

circuit club are running a track day there on 16th may - 30 places only - $350 jayne@circuitclub.com.au

crappy quality vid of the track.

Look What I Found

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 07:13:00 +0000

Here's a treat for people wanting more pics and detail on the new 1.6L Lotus S:

http://www.lotus-verhiest.com/uploads//events/2b586b7f071302ddc72fceba1f26598a.pdf

European Dealer Guide to the new base model in .pdf format.

Some other good stuff on this site well worth checking out by Lotii-philes.

Melbourne F1 - Who's Going?

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 02:34:58 +0000

Hi guys,

I'm heading down for the f1 next Friday - anyone else making the trip?

If so perhaps a lotus meet up sometime could be on the cards?

Cheers
Evan

Car Wrapping

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 23:29:49 +0000

Hi guys,

Was chatting to a friend at Lambo the other day and he said they wrap some of their customers cars as a alternative to re-painting. I've read its becoming more popular over the last couple of years with an interesting article in the 'long term tests' section of EVO magazine about 3 issues back where David Yu wrapped his R35 GTR to 'midnight purple' and he is very satisfied with the results. When it comes to selling your car you can give the choice of the next owner to just pull off the wrap and return the car to its original colour.

Has anyone does this to their cars before and what’s your thoughts?

I’m getting a quote done now for a S2 Exige but the ballpark was around $3,000.

Reason im asking... Theres a great example Exige S in Melbourne thats been for sale for around 2 months now and i've negociated a pretty reasonable price on it I feel, but its Black and im really not a fan of Black cars, keeping it clean and all that shabang.

More News Limited Crap

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:08:14 +0000

So Sydney's Daily Terrorgraph had another crappy, poorly researched and one-sided diatribe again today about young "Hoons" driving around in death traps with exploding pod filters. They didn't publish my comment about the failings of the article but I did notice this one from someone with an interesting nom-de-plume:

Quote

Lotus Elise Posted at 1:23 PM Today
Buy a proper car tools. If you added up all the coin spent on them most could finance a real car. A canon exhaust on a shopping trolley does not a sports car make. It does however p*** everyone off within 3 suburbs earshot while at the same time reducing performance in many cases (cars need some backpressure to work well), and increase fuel use. If you can't afford a decent car, spending $200 on a bigger exhaust achieves nothing.
Comment 110 of 133

Aust Drug Lord Show - Channel 7

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 01:51:37 +0000

front page of SMH

richard buttrose received 12 years & 6months for the coke bust last year. only one mention of him being a 'race car driver'

Which Pyrometer

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:17:25 +0000

Does anyone have a recommendation on what tyre pyrometer to buy ?

had a conversation with a few chaps the other night about the merits of IR or Laser based and direct contact pyrometers ...

interested to see what people are using, and how accurate they have found them to be ... is an IR unit accurate enough for the purposes of measuring differences across the tyre ?

Where To Buy Toyo R888

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:09:43 +0000

need a set of Toyo R888. does anyone know the best place to get them (or the cheapest)??

Blingster Spotted By Seloc?

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:35:12 +0000

Not the greatest reviews Rob!

"
Tasteful and restrained...

not.
"

http://forums.seloc.org/viewthread.php?tid=255466&page=1

Planning A Trip From Perth To Cairns In A Lotus

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:35:45 +0000

We are both peed off at work so looking to do this in a month or so time and allow 2-3 months off. Not the best time of year but not much we can do about that. Will be taking the south route through Adelaide, Melbourne, across to Tassie then up the east side via coast or hill routes. Doing a mixture of camping and hotels. Still got to plan the route but main question at the moment is whether to transport or drive from Perth to Adelaide? Has anyone driven their Lotus across the Nullabor and is it worth it? Can you get frequent and quality petrol on route? What is accommodation like? Do animal scarers actually work? More questions to follow....

Lotus @ Bahrain

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 20:58:42 +0000

Good to see that Lotus is the best of the newbies after Friday practice, and that reliability was good.

Even better to see Clive Chapman, Mario Andretti and Peter Warr in the pits and garage

Pulled these photos from the team's site.

Looking forward to taking a few shots of the team myself in a few weeks in Melbourne, as well as the GT boys

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e315/ajing/Lotus/Lotusf1.jpg

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e315/ajing/Lotus/Lotusf1a.jpg

Good Site With Exige Lineup

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:50:04 +0000

Hopefully this is not a repost.

Browsing the net, found this nice little website. Has proper pics, not just color charts, of all the colors ever released for Exige. And also pics of all the different exige models (S2 only) with quick description of each model as well.
pretty good source me thinks

cheers

Where Can I Hire / Drive An Elise

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:54:01 +0000

i've been in brisbane a month and am really missing my elise which is back home in the uk (i'm not here long enough to make it worthwhile shipping it over) and wondered if any of you lovely people would know where i can hire an elise for road or maybe track day or something???

Bodywork Repair And Paint In Melbourne

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:23:22 +0000

Hi,

Well the inevitable has happened. I returned to my car tonight to find that someone had backed into the front-right of my S1 just above the wheel cracking the clam in two places and some scratches. Luckily they were human enough to leave their number and an apology, he just didn't see it!

Can anyone recommend a bodywork painter/repairer in Melbourne area (preferably within 15km of city) that has experience with Elise's?

Your advice is appreciated.

Thanks,
Phil.

Melbourne Lotus Service Centre?

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 04:39:37 +0000

Hi Forum,

This is my first post and I'm just wanting to know where in Melbourne that I can get my Lotus Elise (2002 model) serviced?

Also, I would like to know which providers you would recommend.

I currently know of Zagame and Pickards of Melbourne.

Many thanks.

Simon

2007 Elise S My04 Or My07

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:49:51 +0000

I've been checking out online insurance quotes for my 07 Elise S. GIO has 2 models listed. An MY04 and an MY07. The default agreed value of the MY04 is $79,990, and for the MY07 it is $69,990. It seems strange that there is $10K difference in value between the 2 cars when they are both 07 Elise S models. Even stranger, it costs less to insure the MY04 model, even though the agreed value is $10K more. I rang GIO, and they couldn't tell me what the difference is between the 2 models (not surprisingly).

Classic Lotus

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 23:03:13 +0000

Apologies if this is a double post, been travelling throug China so not really up to speed.

http://www.wired.com/autopia/2010/03/great-lotus-cars/

Citroen Survolt Concept

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:14:17 +0000

this thing is stunning... car looks beautiful too babe...with citroen survolt

Think I Need To Visit Alabama

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 11:45:13 +0000

The world's largest collection of Lotus, 43 in all live at Barber Motorsport Park in Birmingham, Alabama. There is also a shed load of other cars and bikes plus a proper racetrack. Just about every vehicle is in running condition.

Looks like an interesting place to visit.

Elise S3

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 10:07:47 +0000

well im sure you have all seen it but for those that havn't....
bigger engine or more plastic cover?

First Evora Photo That I Like The Look Of

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 21:39:46 +0000

I still have not seen the Evora in the flesh, so my only connection with it has been the photos, and I must say, none of them make me say "that looks hot". I have heard lots of people comment that the Evora, much like the Audi R8, looks the goods in person, so I suppose I should make the pilgrimage to the Lotus dealer and see for myself.

I did, however, come across the first photo of the Evora that I can truly say, "it`s hot"!!!......What do u think?

http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f170/lotus-evora-carbon-concept-84486/

Hard Top

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:33:25 +0000

Squeaky / creaking hard top

Hi was just thinking at we have 430 odd members here some of you would have OEM hard tops on your car , does any one here have a hard top with a centre rear bracket, or have you seem one on a car and if so could you let me know the year off the car.

I was told that in the USA they didn't come out with the center clamp/bracket until about mid 2006; where there is no clean VIN cutoff for it.

I got this reply back today from Zagame

Had to ask Lotus about this one. This is the reply:
On all late model vehicles that now come through with hard tops this particular bracket is not fitted to the vehicle as it is an unnecessary bracket. If you are to purchase a hard top separately it will not be sent in the kit.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If this bracket is unnecessary here why would it be on cars in the USA and if they have it there does any other courtny have them on there cars

I don’t get it

New Seats

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:47:06 +0000

I'm thinking about getting some new seats as the drivers seat (factory exige) is a bit worn. I'm also getting new harnesses shortly, so thought now may be a good time to get some new seats. I was thinking Lotus Sport Recaro's. They are very comfy and supportive. The only disadvantage is they can only be fixed (not adjustable on runners) - not really a problem for me, as long as any other driver is the same height . They cost about $1.6k each. Are there any options that I should be looking at? (I have tried a couple but these are the best one's so far).
Regards
Michael

Evora Review

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 02:13:07 +0000

in SMH Drive Life today

Accepted Back In To The Fold

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:17:10 +0000

Oh bliss, oh reasurance, oh the sense of belonging.... I had thought I was abandonded. I had thought I had the plague. I even thought I must have given the pope ######. But I HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED BACK INTO FOLD!! Bless you and thanks Mr Administrator. Not sure what I was doing wrong or why, but now I can read the musings of all my fellow petrol heads.

Gee its nice to be back

Phil

2004 Rover Elise

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:48:59 +0000

Fellow Aussie Elise bretheren,

I have a 2004 rover engined storm grey Elise
I just wanted to know for my own knowledge, if anyone knew how much these optional extras are when the car was ordered new.

Touring pack- mine has leather, electric windows, pump up seats-lumber support, padded soft top, fully carpeted interior, Air conditioning.
Blaukpoint Cd player- I beleive an upgrade with pioneer speakers?

Are these factory options and are all those options apart of the touring pack and what were they when car was brand new?

Just in case i ever let go of the elise it would be good to know!!

Thanks, Mike

Passing Of A Lotus Importer

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:46:39 +0000

Sadly on Monday Kevin Shearer passed away.

Kevin was (I think) the sole importer of Lotus cars into Australia during part of the 80s via his business Kevin Shearer Motors in SA.

He was an active historic racer of huge good humour in the Ford special. I raced against him many times.

He was a keen clubman and supported the Sporting Car Club in many ways as does his family. In fact he was virtually the definition of a clubman.

After he sold his business he continued to support a number of the Lotus owners in SA

Kevin was a terrific guy, he helped me out with importing my Esprit and lent me factory tools when I needed them.

We are the worse for his passing.

How Many?

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 07:41:44 +0000

According to Car magazine, Lotus sold 495 cars in the UK in 2009.
Compare that to the UK's most popular car, the Ford Fiesta, which sold 117,000. That's 320 a day.

How Lotuses were many sold here? And what was the most popular car (Corolla?) and how many of those were sold?

Found it...

According to the VFACTS figures compiled by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) 937,328 new vehicles were sold in 2009.

Top brands for 2009
1. Toyota -- 200,991
2. Holden -- 119,568
3. Ford -- 96,501
4. Mazda -- 77,739
5. Hyundai -- 63,207
6. Mitsubishi -- 56,998
7. Nissan -- 52,901
8. Honda -- 41,443
9. Subaru -- 36,506
10. Volkswagen -- 30,087

Top models for 2009
1. Holden Commodore -- 44,387
2. Toyota Corolla -- 39,013
3. Toyota HiLux -- 38,457
4. Mazda3 -- 35,298
5. Ford Falcon -- 31,023
6. Hyundai i30 -- 21,414
7. Mitsubishi Lancer -- 21,362
8. Toyota Camry -- 20,846
9. Hyundai Getz -- 19,643
10. Nissan Navara 18,293

I wonder if the car in front ™ will be in front at the end of 2010!!!!!

Toyota Sticking Throttle Issue

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 07:30:50 +0000

Those of you with Toyota-engined Lotuses beware:
http://www.sniffpetrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/SPAD_ToyotaFrontRoom1.jpg

From Sniff Petrol

Rego Costs

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:11:59 +0000

Renewal just arrived.

Cockatoo, Vic $567

Who has the cheaper/dearest State/area?

I thought I was in a low risk area (TAC), curious to see how it compares, especially against interstate.

Superchaged Exige

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:59:35 +0000

Hi All

I have an 05 s2 exige n/a. I am thinking of bolting on a vf supercharger. I currently live in scotland but am considering a move to australia. Just wondering if id be able to import it into australia as ive read they dont allow one to import modified cars:-(

sincerely

K

Theoretical Top Speed Of You Car

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 23:02:46 +0000

Hmmm- 245 theoretical, 210 achieved on a long track. More probably possible carrying more corner speed onto the straight.

Anyone actually seen their top speed as per the manual, and if so where!? Warning, may be taken in evidence

If You Had Your Time Again

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 11:49:30 +0000

Elise owners - would you buy an Exige, and why?

Exige owners - would you buy an Elise, and why?

Now for the controversial one....which of the many Elise/Exige models offers the best all-round?

Cheers Rossco

111R T Sport.

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 23:12:08 +0000

The Elise I bought from Japan is a 111R T Sport...just wondering where I can find more info about this model....had never heard of the T Sport.

Advice Sort On Std Road Tyres

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:09:50 +0000

At this stage I just want to replace the worn tyres on my Elise S with the same or similar to OE ie Yoko Advan Neova AD07 LTS. Are these still readily available. Have made some inquiries and done some web browsing and the AD07 LTS don't seem to be available. Also, none of the similar high performance road tyres seem to come in a 175/55/16 size. Can I still get the orig Yokos or similar or will I have to change wheels? I know there are other threads on what to do for the track but I don't want to run R spec tyres yet as the car is a daily driver + I'm not ready to shell out for the mods to toughen up the suspension to take the extra force. Any advice appreciated. It seems to suck that the cars leave the factory with such odd sized front wheels. There seem to be a few options for 205s but no 175s.

I Know, I Know It's Not The Right Thread

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 03:35:08 +0000

I've posted here in the hope I get a quick response

Need a quick oil change before a weekend Blat and wonder if anyone can point me to a source of and LPW100181 oil filter for K series. I'm on the beaches. Is there an Aussie Pt numbered equivilent?

Danny

Yikes...

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:05:31 +0000

Info here

http://www.autoguide.com/gallery/d/150764-4/Picture+2.jpg

Probax Seats

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:05:53 +0000

I am looking at a non Probax car for a friend. Does anyone who has tried both think the Probax offer enough advantage to warrant trying to find a later car? I didnt specifically look at that while I had it and didnt notice any real difference.

Usf1 Is Dead

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:54:17 +0000

Like they were ever going to make it....

The news has been published on Infobea.com web site on Wednesday morning that American Formula 1 team USF1 will soon fold and will not participate in the 2010 Formula 1 World Championship.

Speaking to newspaper La Voz, USF1 Sporting Director Peter Windsor confessed to Argentine businessman Philip McGough and driver José Lopez’s parents that the team did not manage to build the cars within the agreed deadlines.

Apparently, things began to tour sour when the main investor of the team, co-founder of YouTube Chad Hurley, left the venture and started negotiating with Adrian Campos.

On Tuesday, the news came out that the building occupied by USF1 was put for sale. And today we learned that Brian Bonner, USF1’s head of business development, was no longer working with the team.

If the American team does not participate, it would open the door to the participation of Stefan GP of Serbian billionaire Zoran Stefanovic.

Story here

4 Point Roll Cage

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 02:41:52 +0000

i'm looking around at various cage options, and have struck up an email conversation with Hot Lap about their cage...
http://www.hot-lap.com/#/4-point-cages/4532648585

This cage is UK$ 750 plus shipping (awaiting shipping quote)

normal seatbelts are able to be used, and its powdercoated black.

it replaces the complete hoop and backstays assy - rear speakers would need to be custom re-mounted tho- it is upgradable to a 6 point cage later on if required.
This one is specific for the toyo powered cars, they also make for rover s2 and s1's

does anyone have experience with them - good or bad ?

thx

"official" Elise Pictures

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 22:04:13 +0000

I was visiting Seloc this morning and there are several references to the face lifted elise -
New elise

Looks like it is taking frontal styling cues from the Evora...

Do I Have To Repaint The Whole Clam?

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:57:48 +0000

One of my friend drop his key on my yellow elise, as a result there are 2cm long and very deep scratch(it is very deep indeed,I can see the white/light yellow primer paint now)

I told him its ok, but its not ok at all in my heart, now my car is carrying few scratches at the back, I can see them clearly even 2 meters away. (cant notice if you are 3 meters away for sure) so is there any easy way to fix deep scratch or Im just facing a $2000 clam repaint bill?

What you will do if you were me?

cry

Top Gear - Season Start

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:16:31 +0000

The missus has tickets to the Comedy Store - unless I can find someone to record this evening's show, I've a dilemma

Any takers?

And The Winner Is ............

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 07:02:26 +0000

I just saw LCQ member, Dr Patrick Mewing, win $100K in the Mooolionaire Hotseat show..

Off to the nearest Lotus dealer, i hope, to strike a deal.............

Trapster

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 05:09:45 +0000

Just go check out what it does and install it on your phone pronto!

http://www.trapster.com/inthenews.php

It's working well all around Australia already.

Helmet Recommendations

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:23:48 +0000

Hi all,
Looking at purchasing a helmet for an occassional track day. I know nothing about helmets and would like to know if anyone has any recommendations. I know there was a tread on the 'old' forum, but now cannot get access to it. I don't want to spend a fortune but would not buy 'crap' just because it is cheap. What would I expect to pay for something decent? (Have to justify with SWMBO in regards to use (which may increase once I actually get onto the track ) Any recommendations appreciated.

BTW is a motorcycle helmet the same as one used in motor sport?
Regards
Michael

Where To Buy Tyres And Hat ?

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 03:57:59 +0000

Hi guys,

Where do you change your tyres in Sydney, My tyres are still like new but I would like to find out the price and best place to replace. Tried my local Tyre shop (tyre power) surprisingly they dont do that size of tyre anyone have any good suggestion ?

Also I like that hat on the picture, anyone know where I can buy in Sydney ? or I have to buy it from elise-shop.com

Thank you

Thread Drift From Spotted To Beijing Experience...

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:58:22 +0000

Shane, on 15 February 2010 - 10:31 AM, said:

Sunday, white Eclat driving north bound on Kwinana/Forrest Fwy (Perth), you don't see those very often.

Also Sunday, some non-descript riced beep beep barina type thing with a "Turned by Lotus" badge. Made me laugh. Wonder where he got the badge from?

Proton Satria?
As they own Lotus, with the revival of the F1 team we will probably see more of those on Protons

Securing Front Number Plate

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 13:13:58 +0000

Is it acceptable to sikaflex it on? I know some guys use double sided tape but I really want it on there properly.

I finally have a front plate. The last one was screwed in and the screws pulled and it fell off the first time it kissed the road a bit.

The powers that be pulled the ticket we got for no front plate on the QLD registered car when we were in Singleton NSW - took a pretty detailed letter but was a good outcome. Pitty the spanner that booked us didn't just give us a warning and save us the trouble.

Auto Trimmer

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 07:39:03 +0000

Hi Guys,

I am wanting to get some trimming work done to my Exige and i wanted to see if any of you could recomend an Auto Trimmer in Sydney that you have had good experience with. If you could also supply pictures of the work completed that would be very much appreciated.

Thanks heaps,

-Ryan

Aghh - F&^kin Radiator

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:16:11 +0000

so i'm cruising down the freeway, just over the harbour bridge this morning and had to suddenly brake for some muppet who decided he wanted to try and get inside my car - new brakes worked very well - and the windscreen is suddenly covered with a slightly pinkish water solution, that smells of hot radiator water

got off the freeway, parked up, procured some more water and managed to limp to the office by stopping and filling up more water.

anyone know if anyone stocks the motorsport aluminium rad in syd ??? gonna give lee a call now ...

Urgent Need An S1 Alternator

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 09:35:48 +0000

Folks, our spanner guy has an S1 owner who is in desparate need of an alternator for his S1. Even a second hand one will do (even if on a temporary loan). Please ping back if anyone has one handy and can get it here quick (tomorrow-ish).

Lotus F1 Pics !

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:13:52 +0000

this is the photo the autosport has taken of lotus doing a shakedown at silverstone before there launch on friday in london.

Its good to see they have kept the origin of the brand, its a real herratige feel.
the iconic green and yellow colour scheme like jim clarks 49 really works well on the car and
the yellow wheels look great .

AAAAnd the best bit is they have kept the relation with proton suttle with small emblems on the rear winf and probly one on the front nose ( just like ferrari with fiat)

i think they have done a good job

Visit To Classic Team Lotus

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 05:45:44 +0000

last time i was in the UK (october '09) I made a point of going to visit the lotus factory at Hethel. I also took the optional tour of Classic Team Lotus, just over the road from the factory, and run by Clive Chapman (Colins son) whom i had a nice chat with about lotus 'stuff'
It is run to service and maintain classic lotus formula one cars. they had several in the workshops under rebuild, including a certain lotus 25 recently sold in sydney - they tell me it was there for setup for a track event.
They encourage you to poke around the cars, talk to the engineers and take a few pics !

uploaded pics to flickr - HERE

Duty On Car Parts Over 1K With Cams License

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:01:25 +0000

On the old board I remember a thread discussing importing car parts over the value of $1k, and how you could reduce the duty you had to pay from 10% to 5% if you could prove that the parts were to be used for racing. You did this through submitting your CAMS license details to the shipping agent or customs broker. Does anyone know any more detail regarding this? Can you do this with a CAMS L2S or do you need a L3?

Does Anyone "know" The Black '03 111S

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 23:22:49 +0000

Interested in any opinion on the car - I'm wondering if its worth a flight down to view in person.

Please IM me?

Thanks,

M

Elise Features On 7 News

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:24:32 +0000

My Elise was on the news last night. Keep an eye out for her here: at about the 45 sec mark
Elise on the news

Only In Australia #2

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:15:43 +0000

Another Nutter

History Of Lotus F1

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 05:04:36 +0000

There's a look at Lotus as a Formula 1 team in the latest (UK) issue of Motorsport. I guess it will be generally available here in a couple of months. There's a Lotus 79 (?) on the cover...
http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/themes/motorsport-2/images/current-issue.jpg?20100204

More info Here

What To Check When Buying A Used Lotus Elise

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:58:49 +0000

Hi Folks,

I would like your feedback as to what to check for when buying a used lotus Elise.
Apart from seeing if the vehicle has been damaged, what would be your "Check List" ?
And feel free to put some detail into it, eg disc thickness's etc...

Supa

Elise Cr

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 07:44:05 +0000

Elise CR
Seen one on Carsales.com.au
Here are some pictures from carsales

It is a limited edition Elise S called CLUB RACER dealer on carsales claims there are only 10 of them in Australia.
I like the "CR"logo especially the one on the seat!! Also love the suede leather seats/steering wheel/etc...and the good point is: price remain the same so If anyone want buy a new elise S you have a better choice now

Cup 260

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 21:10:57 +0000

TG January 2010 road test Cup 260 - they like. Why wouldn't you??

http://www.topgear.com/uk/assets/cms/af8f0f5f-5f2a-4dd5-91b2-e635fa7fb952/Large%20Image%20(optional).jpg?p=100128_10:16

So This Is Where You All Are

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 04:57:28 +0000

I go away for a few weeks and when I get back you lot have all fled to a new site ! But I tracked you down which proves there is nowhere to hide in this world.

Anyhow, it's Old Racer, aka John, here. Trust all are well.

Bet You Can't Do Better Than 417.9Km On One Tank

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:03:12 +0000

The challenge has been set 417.9km in a K series S2. Running on vapour by the time I pulled into the servo. Put in 33L of fuel

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4327684386_e5df8373db_o.jpg

Only In Australia

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 21:03:57 +0000

Perverts!

Parts Arrived In 5 Days

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:45:11 +0000

Ordered some parts from Yvo. Went for el cheapo P&P as in no rush. Yvo said it could take up to 3-4 weeks. I said no probs. Arrived in 5 days!!!!!!!!
Excellent service by Yvo, TNT and Aussie Post.

Brake Dust

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:50:06 +0000

I'm having some trouble getting rid of some brake dust build up on my wheels. It looks like it has been there for some time. I have removed most of it with Maguiers wheel cleaner (an acid based product by the smell of it), but the last bit won't come off. Anybody had any experience in removing this stubborn build up?
Regards
Michael

Elise S2 Tyres

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:04:39 +0000

Can anybody clarify for me what tyres the S2 elises use from the factory(Rover or Toyota engined). More specifically, are they run flat tyres?

Also would like to know the speed and load index rating.

Thanks.

Which Harness To Get?

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 02:36:02 +0000

Hi guys,

I've got my exige seat and harness bar now so next step is the harness itself. I'm looking for a four point ( i do have the fifth point in the seat but i'm not sure about this). Which brand/type would you recommend?

Cheers
Evan

Cant Rails

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 07:51:55 +0000

This is a post out to the kind soul that sent me the extra set of S1 cant rails. As I can't get to the old AE site and I have early onset of Alzheimer's I can't recall who it was. Can you please PM me with your details.

My Lotus Quest In Europe !

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:55:03 +0000

Dear customers, colleagues and friends

I am writing this email to you all that I will be moving to Europe to move forward in my career in motorsports and the automotive industry and have been given a position at a new sports department for Lotus and Caterham in the North of France.

The department will be ran by the leading dealership in France , VERBAERE OCCASION PRESTIGE.

Here I will be involved with the servicing of Lotus and caterham cars , the development and upgrading of Lotus and Caterham customer cars and the building a preparations of Lotus and Caterham racing cars.

I hope to learn and move up the ranks of the Lotus and motorsport world so I can learn alot more, be the best I can be and bring it all back to Australia.

I will leave Australia on the 22nd of January and will start on the 1st of February .
This email address will be the best way to contact me.

I hope to keep in contact with you all through out my quest in Europe,
thank you all for your part in my career and life and I hope to see you all again.

David Lazzaro

VERBAERE OCCASION PRESTIGE - LOTUS , CATERHAM
8, rue du Luyot , Route de Lille Z.I.B - 59113 Seclin
te'l 0320905252

Err.. Wheel Flip

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 08:25:03 +0000

Ok... So did I just do something stupid?

Was working on the basis of extending my tyre life an getting them flipped on the rims then swapped left to right.

Rears no probs... Fronts not good. Shocking steering wheel vibration above 120ks .. They've been balanced but was I not supposed to do that??? Or have they just stuffed the balance up!

... Help...

Hsv E2's Great Noise

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 08:10:16 +0000

Seen one today, great noise
quite loud for a stock car
Better looking aswell(then E1)

Has Anyone Had There Car Re-Painted?

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 07:58:18 +0000

Hi guys...

Well I have been after a yellow elise for some time now.
But there are just no Yellow series 2 Lotus's available.
So God forbid, im actually thinking of painting one.
There are some affordable ones in silver available.

Now I know this is going to reflect on the resale value.
But apart from that, what are my negative points?
They dont seem to be a hard car to paint either.

And now the problem is, if I do get it painted (I'm in QLD) who will I get to do it?
As I want the paint job perfect..

Supa

Lsd On Exige And How It Affects The Dynamics

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 00:48:24 +0000

Hi all. I`m about to have an LSD fitted to the Exige. I unerstand it`s basic purpose, but can anyone (with experience or knowledge) tell me what to expect in it`s handling, driver inputs or anything I will have to do different to a non LSD car. Are there any changes that need to be made to the GEO, nitron settings (ie currently I run 2 clicks stiffer at the rear to the front), or any geo changes needed.

Thanks.

Steering Rack Replacement

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 05:46:11 +0000

I'm wanting to replace my current steering rack (getting noisy) with a new one.

Evo and Geary both offer quick racks, but Evo's (Hurricane, see here) is cheaper @ A$638 than Geary's (see here ) @A$765 by some $127.00

Has anyone used either of these, and are there any opinions about the price difference?

and by the way, how do you make the link just turn into the word "here"?

EDIT by Ashton - like this Syd ^^?

Oval Aluminium Tube ...

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:18:38 +0000

Hi i'm looking for a couple of meters of alumimium tube -

wall thickness of 1.5mm ish

Internal Diameter of 32 x 46mm, not sure what other measurements are required for speccing oval tube tho ...

anyone offer any advice ?

thx

Rego Plate Lot-00Y Or Wayne?

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 09:35:34 +0000

Need further info on the S1 listed on carsales with rego plate LOT-00Y.

cheers...

Modifying Interia Switch To Open Doors

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 01:24:26 +0000

Came across this mod on Lotus Talk. Basically it involves tapping into the intertia switch which is the switch that in an accident will open your doors and cut off the fuel supply.

If you fob fails to open the doors you can use this "hotwired" intertia switch.

http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f129/emergency-unlock-switch-easy-mod-pictorial-16320/

My New Toy[Size="6"][/size]

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 04:40:38 +0000

[attachment=142:RIMG0324.JPG]Well after many months of waiting, I finally picked up my Exige from Lee last Wednesday. Only problem on collection was non-functioning a/c, not great wirh it being 35c and a drive to Melbourne ahead. Lee tried a re-gas, but we have a leak from a pipe at the front. A new one has been ordered so I should soon have cool air.
I decided to buy a n/a car and have the 240cup supercharger fitted, which Lee did a fantastic job of. The car goes much harder than I was expecting, nice surprise .
Towards the end of my drive down the Hume after I must admit I was beginning to question my sanity in buying a Lotus, but after a 3hr dawn drive through the mountains this morning it makes perfect sense!
I have never driven a car that turns so well and can carry SO much corner speed, and I have owned a few quick cars.
Here are a couple of pics. Think I will get the wheels powder coated black.
Oh and it is faster than a new M3, from 30k through to well into license losing territory. That surprised me.

Visited Lotus

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:41:10 +0000

For work reasons I happened to be in London this month, I paid for an additional nights accommodation to give myself a free day to spend up there and decided to visit Lotus in Hethel.

It was a great experience!

Here are some clinical shots of the Lotus Factory

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6596.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6584.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6575.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6592.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6589.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6652.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6610.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6628.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6630.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6671.jpg
Anyone wanna hardtop roof?

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6676.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6697.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6700.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6719.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6715.jpg

http://www.eastonchang.com/lotushq/_MG_6733.jpg

Droool - Hsv010 (No, Not Holden)

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:32:58 +0000

Specs

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 02:39:01 +0000

Hi Folks,

On the hunt for my Elise (Finally) and having some issues with the manner in which they are listed when advertised, especially by Dealers - Hard to say sometimes exactly what they have for sale.....

Can anyone point me to a good source of info on Australian models, with MY info and full specs, even hopefully some identification resources?

Thanks,

Mark

Buying A Used Car, Please Check Its Damage History

Sat, 23 Jan 2010 03:08:18 +0000

Hi all,

Been thinking about my car a lot since the new owner who purchased the wreck tracked me down and called me last week.

During the call he hinted towards trying to repair the written off chassis on the wreck (welding new bits on e.t.c) but he will investigate further. As you know all references to this chassis were told to replace it and to repair would be highly dangerous due to the unknown affects to the glue compounds.

I had images of a car like this being repaired and being on the market in a few months and a friend/family/fellow member of AE or CLA purchases the car, is driving it at speed and something happens and ........ well you can guess the dark thoughts I had.

I just wanted to put up a word to at least try and make my conscience feel a little better to warn you if you see ANY car come up for sale to please do a thorough check of its accident/repair history before putting your life in its hands on the track OR the road.

Cheers

[Need Advice] Out Of Warranty And A/c Blower Stop Working

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:11:07 +0000

Hi guys

Really need some good advices here

Nov 2009, Gave up my Alfa and 1st time to be a lotus owner in my life, LOVED AND ENJOYED it so much
but everything turn bad quicly, here is the story.

Bought my used 07 Elise from a Lotus dealer, car is nice, only it is out of warranty on OCT 2009 but the salesman is kind enough to promise me that there will be a 3 month compulsory warranty in NSW for any used car sold by dealer.

1st day of driving found out the speedometer not back to zero, thought it can be reset easily, should't be a big deal, so I didn't send the car back promptly.(that's a really bad move but we will pick that up later)

Since I only use the car as a weekend toy with roof off, I never turned the A/C on while driving until about 2 weeks ago, that extremely hot Saturday. Turned the A/C on, noise appeared when I turning left, then discovered the problem only occurs when the A/C blower is on maximum level and that rubbing noise is from the left front side of the car.

No idea of what to do, so I sent the car back to dealer on the following Monday, at that time I complained the noise and instrument cluster as well. As we all expected, I got a quote with so many thousands on it, I told them there should be a 3 month warranty they said they need to speak with someone to find it out and will contact me within 3 days, sadly, I waited for 5 days, no phonecall at all, so I called them, the reply is "I'll call you back tomorrow." Still, got nothing after 5 of "tomorrow"s, called again, reply is simple: NO warranty coved at all! and don't know why, after I picked up the car back from the service department, the A/C blower is stop working completely.

After that I tried to speak with their sales manager but seems he won't be in the office(auto reply) until 28/01/2010， totally have no idea what he will say. I signed a document when I bought the car which says there is no warranty for this car (also called "Form 8") but I asked the salesman can I still get 3 month warranty that he promised me just right before i signed it and he said "yes there will always be a 3 month compulsory warranty in NSW for dealer sold used car" Now, I have no idea if I'm legal coved or not.

Also I found out the car I bought is actually traveled 1387kms more then it shows on the cluster and our
contract... One reason I decided to buy the car from dealer is because I tought at least they won't fake. but it turned out I was paying much more money for nothing...

Now I need to wait until sales manager's reply to see what he say

I will be very greatful if I could get some good advices

Thank you

Lotus Omnivore Engine

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:51:18 +0000

Check here and here.

I'll have to spend some more time on this before i get it...

http://images.pistonheads.com/nimg/21397/omnivore-L.jpg

Winding Road's Top 12 Cars Of 2009

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 12:22:14 +0000

Winding Road, the online car mag from the USA has put the supercharged Lotuses at number 2 on their list of the Top 12 Cars of 2009.

"The closest thing to driving as a form of meditation we've seen in any production vehicle"..."Yes, it's that good".

Now if only they had driven a Series 1...

[ this post has been moderate4 by an S2 owner . at zeddos request ]

Be Careful In Berrima

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 09:39:20 +0000

Some of you may recall that I reported on the other forum that my car had been keyed in Berrima. It mow appears that there may be a group of localish under-parented kids making a habit of this for their summer entertainment. I have discussed this with the Police in Bowral who were very helpful and seem to be taking the matter seriously. In the meantime I wouldn't park your better cars out of immediate sight if you are visiting Berrima.

Rear View / Reversing Camera

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:04:54 +0000

Guys,

I'm thinking about installing a rear view camera after a number of near misses in the Lotus. After driving 'normal' road cars with reversing sensors, it's amazing how much you get used to them - so a camera for the Lotus is on the cards.

I've seen a number Lotii with them, so I thought that this would be a good place to get an informed opinion on makes / features / $.

Look forward to hearing the collective 'wisdom' of the group.

Cheers,

Craig
(Be away for a few days, so will be slow to respond).

Buying Guide: Known Elise Problems.

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 02:26:45 +0000

Hi all,

I'm planning to go inspect an S2 Elise this weekend so seeking some advice on some things to look out for when buying an Elise. What are the common problems with these cars?

Thanks in advance

John

Lotus Family Car Reviewed

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 22:25:38 +0000

http://theage.drive.com.au/motor-news/driven-lotuss-new-porsche-challenger-20100119-miwu.html

Front Number Plate

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:55:36 +0000

Thinking about getting a sticker or similar made to replicate the front number plate that can be applied direct to the splitter. My number plate looks too large on the splitter. Either I drill holes in the middle of the plate or mount it high, neither looks good (I've currenlty got my front plate sitting on the dash. I have seen a few cars with these stickers or similar. Anyone had experience with these? Where have they been made? I am aware that these would not comply with RTA standards. Willing to take the risk
Michael

Lotus History Lesson

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:38:14 +0000

http://www.lotuscars.com.au/#/history/

(move lotus badge along timeline )

Insurance Premiums

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:40:02 +0000

Just want to get an idea of how much i will be paying for insurance for S1/2 Elise/Exige...

Car & Year:
Location:
Age:
Insurance Company:
Insurance Premium:
Insurance Excess:
Insured Value:
Extras/Restrictions: i.e. modifications covered, parking, restricted kms p/a etc...

Melbourne Accommodation

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:43:54 +0000

Tim and I are running GT at F1GP at Albert Park March 25‐28. Given this is a busy time I figured we should start looking for accommodation now. I will drive the truck down which I assume can stay in the paddock so ideally we would like somewhere near the track for Me, Tim and a few crew.

Ideas?

Missing Blackwatch Racing Group Buy

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 11:41:37 +0000

Hey guys,
since we have been swapped overt to this new technical thingy site. I have lost all the info on who i paid money too for the black badge set through the group buy. I have lost all my old PM's. Someone please help, perhaps PM me on this new forumybob.

Ex Race Lotus Elises....

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:55:20 +0000

Hey guys,

Was trying to do a search for the thread covering information about those Ex race Elises on carsales. Was trying to do some research on what it would involve to deem them suitable for road registration?

Tried running a search but to no avail?

Cheers

fly

The Mandatory "funniest Comments" With Your Lotus Thread.

Sun, 17 Jan 2010 07:35:27 +0000

A slightly amusing thing happened to me today - and I noticed we didn't have the funniest comment section up yet so I thought I would start it.

Drove the car to Bunnings today to pick up some chicken wire. I parked a few spots down from a family loading up the SUV with all sorts of hardware. A small child from in the car started to yell (yes.. yes... I know you have heard this all before)..

"Dad! Dad! Look... it's a lotus"
(repeat about 5 times as Dad wasn't paying attention and was busy loading the car)
"it's a lotus!"
"what?"
"A lotus IN REAL LIFE!"

In real life?

Having never played GTA need for speed tokyo special edition whatever... I found this mildly amusing.

SM.

Summer Means Cicadas (And Lotus Drive-Bys)

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 13:27:47 +0000

What would the Australian summer be without the sound of cicadas. They can be bloody loud but they are not alone.

Direct link for HQ and fullframe

Honda-powered n/a Elise with Hi-Tech single tip stainless steel exhaust.

Check You Rear Tie Rods

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 05:04:00 +0000

I've been waiting for assessments from my insurer and some good quality informed opinions of the car in a workshop before posting this.

The 18 December Qld EMR saw me going to work the long way, yep, up Mt Glorious for breakfast with 3 other Elises then into the office, only, I didn't get to the office. Instead my beloved Elise made love to various parts of the country-side on the return trip.

The rear right tie rod snapped on a left hand bend, the car then went up an embankment, clipped some trees with the front clam, spun and clipped a tree with the rear clam, bouncing the car back onto the road. "Forever Young" witnessed from the rear as did a Falcon GT which had been pacing us. Meanwhile Pato & Flynny returned to the scene after realizing there were no Elises behind them.

Side effects -
Me: I suffered no injury.
The car: chassis is undamaged. However the front and back clams, RHS headlight, front crash structure, radiator and some suspension components are all in need of replacement.
The insurance company decision: a financial write off.

So, all you folk with an Elise, especially those doing track days on R spec tyres, check your tie-rods, not just the tie-rod ends, check they are aligned properly and there are no cracks developing. This may require removal and checking the inside of the rod. Mine appears to have broken at the end of the thread into which the tie-rod end is threaded. The break had been developing over time, this is visible in X-section as a 5mm clean & shiny section of the rod, the aged crack of the X-section was dull in colour.

As the chassis has not been damaged, the car will be repaired by Greg Bray over the following months. I must say, none of this would be possible with-out the enormous support from David & Tim Mackie and Geoff Noble. Their unrequested and very appreciated support has left me speachless and very, very humble. Thanks guys. I now look forward to working with Greg, David, Tim & Geoff on my return from the UK in three weeks.

I won't make the 1st round at Morgan Park but for the 2nd round all you young pups are on notice.

How To Warm Up Engine At Skidpan Days?

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 05:51:46 +0000

Hi all

We (Lotus-WA) have a skidpan day this Saturday so I thought I'd put this out there. Not been to one before but my understanding is your car just spends most of the day being unused and when it's your go you give it hell. So what's the best way to ensure your engine/coolant/oil etc are up to operating temperatures before you go out. Do you just let it idle for 10min or so or id there some other way. Or do you just turn a blind eye and try and forget about the damage you are potentially causing your pride and joy.

btw forecast for Sat is 39C so even letting it idle for 10min may result in overheating anyway. Hmm, may have to turn on the a/c to keep the temps under control if this is the way to do it.

Anyone got any advice?

Measuring Oil Temp Using The Stack

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 05:34:25 +0000

Hi all

I recently stumbled on this article detailing how to install an oil temperature gauge using the stack to display the termperature rather than having to mount a seperate temp gauge. At my next oil change I may give it a go.

http://www.fourwheels.org/elise/oil-temp/

Lotus Evora Cup

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 04:17:41 +0000

Anyone going to have a go?

http://www.lotusevoracup.com/

http://www.lotusevoracup.com/images/header-home.jpg

S1 With A/c In Australia!

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 05:52:49 +0000

Just saw this car ad. It's an S1 with a/c. I would have found this handy yesterday when I drove into work in my S1 at 8.30 when it was already 33C!

Anyone know anything about this car? I assume it must be a HK or Malysian import.

Looks OK for anyone in the market for an S1. Esp. those too soft to have an S1 because of the lack of a/c.

http://www.carsales.com.au/all-cars/private/details.aspx?R=8153959&__sid=12593BA73EA1&__Qpb=true&Cr=8&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32%7c1%7c%7cpCar_PriceSort_Decimal%7c1%7c%7cpCar_Make_String%7c0%7c%7cpCar_Model_String%7c0&keywords=&__N=1216%201246%201247%201252%201282%204294965279&seot=1&tsrc=allcarhome&__Nne=15&trecs=32&silo=1011

Aim Sports Smartycam

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 05:14:41 +0000

So i ordered a smartycam - i've been toying over the idea of it for ages now, followed its development for a while and get very excited about it.. its not cheap, which is why i've stalled on buying one, BUT has the following features ...

records dvd quality vid on between 4 and 16gb micro sd card.
hooks into my AIM dash (and is powered by the dash) and data logs everything to create video overlay via CAN cable.
it can also plug into the odb port on toyo powered exige / elise for data logging.
has accelerometer on board for G sensor display.
has GPS on board for track & sector timing.
has a small screen on it to make sure you are filming what you want to film ! pointing in the right direction, is square etc ...
is IP67 outdoor / waterproofed.
comes with a balljoint mounting kit.

http://www.smartycam.com/on-board-camera.htm

i ordered from http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/productdetails.asp?RecID=7274

local supplier quoted $1700 plus CAN interface cable, plus balljoint mounting kit.

pegasus price was $999.99 (Edit - this is in USD) + $60 shipping to syd ...

will update this thread when i have it in my hot little hands and have done some vid - maybe even here in time for ec/pizza !

Oz Clubbies

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:47:29 +0000

Having owned a PRB Clubman and contributing to the Se7ens mailing list I noticed there was no Australian Clubman forum so in 2002 I started a forum on EzBoard called OzClubbies. Soon after a met a guy called Geoff Northcott who owned a Caterham.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/4269702407_fb25c2f199.jpg

After a year or so the forum grew to a reasonable size and Geoff offered to help out with the hosting and moved the forum to PHPBB software. Geoff made me and Daz administrators which was nice.

Although I was an Admin I found I never had access to the same powers are Geoff. This didn't really phase me as I was able to reset password for people and it was mostly a friendly place.

I owned two PRBs and contributed a great deal to that community over the years. in 2004 I bought my first Elise and joined Aussie Elises. By this time Geoff had also met Ashton and taken an interest in the Elise community.

Soon He offered to host AE and port it over from the Yahoo group that Ashton started.

A couple of years ago Geoff created his own domain oz-clubbies and moved the forum to it. I foolish agreed to point my domain to it.

I have continued to read and contribute to OzClubbies which now has over 2000 members many of whom are also members of Aussie Elises.

I won't detail the recent history because Ashton has already covered most of that.

Monday I posted a link to this AE site on OzClubbies because there was some confusion there over the two sites.

Geoff deleted my post very quickly.

So I posted it again.

He deleted it again and removed my Admin rights.

He also added a text replacement script that swapped aussieelies for aussie-elises so all links went to his new domain.

Daz moved my post back from the trash and made comment about it.

Daz had his admin rights revoked and my posts were deleted again.

Now I can't post on OzClubbies without Geoff approving my posts, which he has not done.

So today Geoff is the only person who administers and moderates OzClubbies and he has control of all the data.

I fear that OzClubbies will follow the same path as AE.

SOooooo, I have had discussions with a few key members at OzClubbies about kicking off a new forum that the members can control and it got me thinking that perhaps we could combine the two forums under one umbrella. Think about it, the Elise is the modern Lotus 7 and the cars share the same heritage. There is always going to be cross interest between the communities. Ashton and I have always felt that we should combine events to get numbers up. Both communities are a great bunch of people from all facets off life.

This decision will not be taken lightly and will require considerable dialogue from both sides. We can set up separate technical areas or split the forums up however it works best.

so over to you lot. Do we consider it?

Crimping Tool

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 22:17:15 +0000

Hi Guys,

I'm looking to borrow a battery terminal/Anderson plug crimping tool for a few days.

Has anyone got one they are willing to lend me?

Thanks

Simon

Race Seats Lotus

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 21:30:09 +0000

Hi Guys,

Later this month I will start my driver training with Mike reedy and I really need some race seats...
I brought some recaro lotus motorsport seats from SSC but the don't fit side by side, plus i have a pair of Bride seats that do fit side by side but
are for a waist 32 and under.. I guy who sold them to me never told me that... Hahaha

Has anyone ever use the Cobra racer 7, they fit side by side but i don't know how big they are... Is there any stockest in Sydney..
Hope you can help me..

Thanks

Front Splitter

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 02:34:45 +0000

i am looking at a front Splitter and have some question's

i found this one on Elise Parts

http://www.eliseparts.com/products/show/13/71/front-splitter-s2/

do we get hite with import dutys and gst on the way in ???

and how hard are they to fit ?????

cheers eric

How Do You Get Pm Working

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 01:48:11 +0000

i can't seem to figure out how get my PM working on there

Lotus 2011

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 11:14:34 +0000

i know its a while off, but i need to start planning my year and depending on when lotus 2011 is will depend on where i go this year, which knocks on to next year ...

anyway - long story short, when is the proposed date ? anyone know ?

Growing Up Fast

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 08:21:59 +0000

Guys,

Just a quick note to thank all of you for voting with your feet and re-joining the original Aussie Elises community, a democratically (and necessarily complex!) on-line forum of like-minded people.

In the 24 hours or so we have been live, we have already registered over 100 new members!

Let the fun begin

Useful Tip For Iphone Users

Sat, 09 Jan 2010 23:38:23 +0000

I found an easy way to check AE on my iPhone is to add a bookmark for the "View New Content" link.

http://aussieelises.com/index.php?app=core&module=search&do=new_posts&search_filter_app[forums]=1

Your iPhone should default to the LoFi version of the forum so it will load fast and easy to read.

Spotted

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:54:41 +0000

Post here if you see a car you don't recognise, and if you are spotted, let us know who you are

Love My Lotus

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 01:56:27 +0000

Days like this I remember why I love my Lotus so much. It was a pleasant 25C here in the Southern Highlands today so Liz and I put the kids in the cars and took off for a drive for morning tea at Bundanoon. Then I took some photos of the cars. We all had much more fun than if we had taken the family slush mobile.

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100317/IMG_0069/web.jpg

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100317/IMG_0073/web.jpg

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100317/DSC_1183/web.jpg

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100317/DSC_1184/web.jpg

http://gallery.me.com/demackie/100317/DSC_1185/web.jpg

Arhhhhhhhhhhh!

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 17:11:04 +0000

I stupidly looked at AE1....

Need a long-range shotgun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oran Park For Sale

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 09:08:34 +0000

Bit of it anyway.

http://www.oranpark.com.au/for_sale.html

Global Warming - My Arse!

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:58:57 +0000

Burrrrrrrr.....

Latest unofficial publication from the RTA...

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:50:43 +0000

Rules of the Road - Version 2.0

For those outside Australia, we drive right hand drive cars and drive on the left hand side of the road.

In Oz, we have an unwritten road code, therefore, it is suggested that you discard your official copy so diligently obtained and studied prior to your visit. The following rules apply to the Oz roads, not in any particular order of importance.

1. The correct overtaking lane is the left hand lane. The right hand lane is reserved for sightseeing, making mobile phone calls, and looking for street signs. If someone behind you puts on their high beam when you are in the right hand lane, they do not want to overtake, but, in fact, are trying to give you more light in which to read your street directory. We in the west are so considerate like that.

2. Tunnels are a big novelty here, despite probably being commonplace where you come from. As a result, you are expected to reduce speed considerably on entering our very own tunnel so you have more time to appreciate the engineering and architecture of this magnificent structure, which is far better than anything in your hometown.

3. In Oz, it is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone while you are driving. Please do not let that stop you, your call is important to us. However, we all recognise the inherent danger in using these devices while driving, so it is recommended that whilst using a mobile, please move to the right lane (you should be there already) and reduce speed to ensure you can still respond in a timely manner to any change in road conditions.

4. Roundabouts are something we have never really got used to. To avoid any confusion, please do not indicate at all, as any indication is confusing. Should you not be to sure who has right of way, feel free to stop in the middle of the roundabout to give way to your left. This is also a great gesture of courtesy, and should anyone toot their horn, it is in appreciation of your courtesy. Likewise, a vertical finger is a wave of “welcome to Oz.

5. On many of our country roads there are overtaking lanes to allow drivers to overtake slower vehicles on sections where it would otherwise be difficult or impossible to do so. You should be mindful of the fact that speed is our biggest killer and you therefore have a moral obligation to drive at least 20kph below the speed limit on the single lane sections, and accelerate to whatever speed is necessary to prohibit those reckless drivers in our midst from overtaking. They are a danger to the community at large and who knows how many lives you will save by such a small contribution as this.

6. Traffic lights are a modern method of regulating the flow of traffic but have the effect of causing vehicles to travel in packs. Therefore, the appropriate method to reduce this effect is to wait until the vehicle in front of you is a reasonable distance from you before you move away from the lights. Ten car lengths or more is considered appropriate. Do not accelerate quickly away from the lights, as this will make you stand out as a tourist.

7. Merging of two lanes into one has its dangers. The obvious way to reduce these dangers is to reduce your speed prior to attempting a merging manoeuvre. While you may be used to merging one for one, this simply does not work here and you should try to stay as close to the car in front to ensure you don’t lose your place in the queue.

If all the above rules are too confusing, remember that when all else fails, drive in the right hand lane and be totally oblivious to anything that may be happening around you. It is not as easy as it sounds but with some practice you’ll find yourself driving like a local in no time.
Follow these simple rules and you are ensured of a pleasant stay in our beautiful state without standing out from the crowd as just another tourist. Enjoy your stay.

old mirror lugs/bolts-removal

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:41:38 +0000

Shows how useless the old AE is. Holmz is the only one with any real advice anymore seeing you blokes don't go there any more.

So how do i remove the mirror bolts from within the door. Does the door come apart or is it pixies with small hands (c0z mine don't fit)
please. anyone

Anothewr VHPD heading for the bin

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 06:30:27 +0000

sorry, but could not leave it as it was, whoever likes these engines is clearly delusional...

Looks like I have a new best friend!

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 19:33:54 +0000

http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/system/product_images/images/000/101/362/zoom/5096_more_rupert_adventures.jpg

Evora PCOTY

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:52:53 +0000

At work, I won a 12 month subscription to Car magazine (UK). I just got the new PCOTY 2009 issue. 30 cars were in contention, including 2 Lambos, a Ferrari, Audi R8 and 2 Porkers. And winner is ........ the Lotus Evora! Compare this to the Oz car mags that hate anything Lotus. In 2007, Motor magazine in their Bang For Your Bucks, ranked the Elise S not only last in its class, but last overall out of 22 cars (including a Fiat Punto diesel!).

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/CAR-Features/Performance-Car-of-The-Year-2009/?

Please don't hate me, but I'm also posting this on AE1

Driving / Fog lights

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 09:03:01 +0000

And breathe......................................

1.....2......3......4......5......6......

Garage Space available?

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:14:54 +0000

Anyone aware of a vacant garage somewhere near Newtown/Marrickville/Tempe (no, I'm not leaving it at Tempe Tyres ) as I can now get my car back, but need to have somewhere to store it until the garage is built.

Any thoughts gratefully received.

If anyone else needs undercover storage, I could easily be persuaded to go halves (or more) on a shared space!

Kirrapak's new race car

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:08:01 +0000

We are building another race car so Tim and I can both race.

I am using our spare chassis to do a ground up build that will be identical to the current car. Scuffers has been a huge help in acquiring and shipping parts out for me and he is coming over for a month to help me finish the car.

I will take lots of photos along the way and document it all here.

I'm moving all our car gear to new larger workshop next week and can't wait to get into it.

3 week warning....

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:44:57 +0000

it's that time of year again when you all need to dig deep and buy me a beer + Pizza etc.....

you have been warned!

AE1 BROKEN?

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:33:35 +0000

Is it broken? Ashton did you do this?

HondaElise conversion discount

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 03:44:26 +0000

Hi all,

I have reviewed our HondaElise price list in view of the current strength of the Aussie dollar vs UK pound. With a little discount on our part I have brought the price down to $24,995 inc GST for the NA Honda K20a conversion.

If anyone is interested in taking advantage of this offer please PM or email me for a detailed price list.

david@kirrapak.com

Seems there are a lot of Lotus in Japan

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:58:34 +0000

Biggest Lotus gathering ever

http://drmike.smugmug.com/Motorsports-racing/lotus-day-fuji-speedway/9768670_4xrqG#662201515_etcdQ

F-Sport and Kumho Tyres

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:58:14 +0000

I went out to F-SPort on Wednesday morning to replace the rear tyres I wore out at Wakefield on Monday and was a little taken aback by what I saw.

John Mills is now working alone at the Arndell Park premises and there is almost no stock in his warehouse/workshop. Kumho Australia has decided to keep the stock at the main warehouse (which is nearby).

The GFC has also caused a downturn in demand for competition tyres. As a result, John is looking to move to smaller, cheaper premises nearby. He is also working at the warehouse less days per week. If you want a set of Kumhos supplied and fitted by John make sure you ring him first so he can get the tyres to the workshop. He is still happy to fit tyres using the gear in his truck. Alternatively he will despatch tyres to a dealer near you. Zeddo, does this answer your tyre questions from the procrastination thread?

We also spoke about a few interesting things:
Kumho is about to release a replacement for the V70A. The V70s should be around for a little while as the new tyres filter through.

John has just purchased a machine for heat treating tyres to optimise them. Previously these sorts of machines have involved running the tyres on rollers to emulate friction from the road. This new machine uses an infra-red heater tuned to a frequency that is optimised for the rubber. Because no physical contact is required, it doesn't cause any tyre wear.

John also raised the possibility of having a permanent Kumho presence with tyres and fitting facilities at Wakefield. It would usually be operated by Wakefield staff with John only going down for major events. Personally I think it is a good idea but I don't know how financially viable i would be. I told John I would mention this on several forums and get some feedback. Whadya reckon? Ever been at a Wakefield track day or supersprint and wished you could buy some decent tyres?

F1 they were the days

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:37:07 +0000

some cool history pics -if they'll load - bit of a test

do like the way the pics load and also how they pop up in the middle of the screen. This is cool software Ash, better than the old one.

bad procrastination habit

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:14:53 +0000

Just so this forum doesn't look so new, i thought I'd be post something in the Lotus related section...hmmm

ok,
what i need to be doing next. ie what i've been procrastinating on.

Gear linkage. Bought before i broke my leg. Still on the bench
Electrical cut off switch, again, on bench 0- but also because the instructions from revolution are pathetic. anyone care to explain it with pics??
New Kumhos - need to call John Mills - do you go out to them, just take rims or do they send them somewhere else for you to have put on??
hiflow cat or no cat- and or exhaust -seeing Juliette spent my HOnda fund (i was 65% there) on redoing the pool - anyone want to come over a swim? Guess i have to make the K a bit quicker, so i feel i'm doing something
Tartan seat cushions for the MOGS - just for cold winter days where the thin CF means ya bum gets goosey. http://www.scotweb.c...ystone%20modern
(check that site out Dave) hmm, couldn't find a Mackie, just Mackay?
Also electrostatic race numbers like Phills from the US- 222

so there's a good topic to comment on, give guidance or just bag me out.
Feels like home