Please identify this piece

[gjz30075]

I've got this stainless piece that looks like its for the console. My S4 doesn't have it but I've seen console pads that drop down on either side of the console and I'm guessing this piece is upholstered and does that. Numbers stamped at the edge are 36B 186. Numerous screw holes have me baffled, however. Any ideas?

Greg Z

[aratchet]

It is the piece the caps the center console on many Elans. The holes were for small split rivets that were upholstered over and then spread once through the console plastic. I think it is a better solution for an armrest pad compared the rectangular one that did not wrap over the sides which had a tendency to break the top of the consoles as they aged. The rectangular tops were also backed with Masonite, which eventually fatigued depending on how pointy your elbows were. I think these days you could use a good quality adhesive to attach it. Both types were used through out production so it might have been dependent on what the supplier had on the shelf or another unknown variable.

[trw99]

Both types were used through out production

I'm not sure that is right. I can not recall having seen a Sprint with the flat rectangular version, only the wrap-over type. Having a quick look at period road tests, the S1 appears to have the rectangular version, and by the S3, most are wrap-over style. Oddly the Federal road tests of the S4 seem to have the rectangular version.

I doubt there was much rhyme or reason for the differences, but it would be interesting to know who has what.

Tim

[gjz30075]

Both types were used through out production

Oddly the Federal road tests of the S4 seem to have the rectangular version.

I doubt there was much rhyme or reason for the differences, but it would be interesting to know who has what.

Tim

Tim, my Federal Sprint has the rectangular version, as indicated, however, I've seen an early S4 here in the States with the wrap around.

Greg Z

[Jon Eckman]

The '66 S2 (26/4506) I had back in the 70's had the rectangular masonite type rest, while my '66 S3 (36/5599) has the fold-over style.

[holywood3645]

You are all correct to a point. The S4 has the plastic square edged tunnel cover and on top of that, this Item is fitted. The holes are for rivits that fit underneath the material the covers the metal and through the plastic tunnel cover. I have it sitting in my garage with this fitted. E-mail me if you want a picture. I beleive this system is used on the S4 and Sprint. Maybe an S3.
James


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[velo5338]

I can't get over the fact that it is stainless steel. Heavy and expensive! Seems most un-Colin-like.

[oldelanman]

More discussion on this here....http://www.lotuselan.net/forums/elan-f14/centre-console-trim-pad-t21421.html....but no definitive answer.

Regards,

[gjz30075]

Mike, I don't think it's stainless, with further investigation. It's not magnetic but awfully polished. Just aluminum, I'm sure.
Sorry,

Greg Z

[velo5338]

Phew, you had me worried for a minute there!

How about measuring it for me and sending/posting a few dimensions. My Sprint has the flat box type pad, but I want to make one with the turned down edges - same as the one on my '72 (UK) Sprint. I have the correct wide flute padded vinyl (enough to share with a few others if anyone's interested).

Mike

[gjz30075]

Mike, are you going to the Mitty? I'll be there on Friday only and I can bring it with me. If not, I'll get you the measurements needed.

GregZ

[velo5338]

Yes, I'll be there all 3 days (weather permitting).
Mike

[gjz30075]

Mike, I'm unable to make the Mitty so please send me your address and I'll post it off to you.
None of the email address' I have for you seem to work. I'm at gjz30075 -at- bellsouth.net

Greg Z

[Lincoln62]

It could have been made by a previous owner.

I made something similar for my Alfa when an original plastic piece broke.

Pete
66S2