Did I do the right thing?

[Mister E]

I am purchasing this '69 tomorrow. Anything terrible jump out?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1969-Lotus-Elan-Series-4-Convertable-Roadster-34k-original-miles-/281115918773?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item4173d081b5#ht_8983wt_1120

[gjz30075]

Looks like a good buy. Were you able to 'see it in the flesh' and drive it before buying?

Greg Z

[Spyder fan]

For the price listed I can't see anything wrong with that car. A very presentable example that looks as though it's been well cared for and maintained.

Not easy to judge the paintwork, but it looks good. The dashboard looks a little tired, but replacements are cheap.

There are a few bits that are "incorrect" such as the glove box lid and maybe the gear knob is the wrong one, but you have a signed steering wheel and everything else is present and correct.

Under the hood looks well cared for and I spotted what looks to be an alternator rather than the standard dynamo; some would say the alternator is wrong, but it will operate in stop start traffic unlike the dynamo which is a comforting thought on a cold evening when you have the lights the heater and everything else switched on.

Enjoy it just as it is and maybe plan some improvements as time moves on, but apart from that dashboard

[Mazzini]

Looks nice and for a very reasonable price - good luck.

[Mister E]

Thanks to all that have commented. I am not knowledgeable about Elans.The owner has told me the paint is not that great in person. This will be my first Lotus. I am super excited to get the car.
I will see it today!

[AHM]

looks good - Mostly pretty original I like it like that. Nothing really expensive missing, but enough odd jobs to keep you busy.

A few things to check - Nothing drastic.

Front wihbone securing nuts should have a large washer between themand the bush.
Solid brake pipes should go through a rubber tube (fuel pipe) where they are attached to the chassis.
Cooling will be improved if you fit the foam on the radiator and the baffle at the bottom if it is not there.
Check that you have the right type of radiator cap.
Also check the engine mount under the carbs - It doesn't look like it is sitting right - might just be the camera angle.

[Mister E]

looks good - Mostly pretty original I like it like that. Nothing really expensive missing, but enough odd jobs to keep you busy.

A few things to check - Nothing drastic.

Front wihbone securing nuts should have a large washer between themand the bush.
Solid brake pipes should go through a rubber tube (fuel pipe) where they are attached to the chassis.
Cooling will be improved if you fit the foam on the radiator and the baffle at the bottom if it is not there.
Check that you have the right type of radiator cap.
Also check the engine mount under the carbs - It doesn't look like it is sitting right - might just be the camera angle.

Thanks for your help. I'll take your post with me to add to my checklist. Thanks again!

[m750rider]

I saw this earlier this weekend and I thought it looked good and at a fair price. Of course an in person inspection and drive is required to confirm it. But by the pictures and description I liked it. Good luck with it.

Bob
1969 S4 SE
45/8842

[cal44]

Mister E........if that is your real name............
car looks fine, price looks fine. I think you'll be fine........ifin' the seller is honest.

mike

[pharriso]

Looks like a good buy Mr E. Congrats!

Where are you in the United States?

[Mister E]

Trailered the car home to Washington State. Eager to start driving and fiddling with the spanners (always wanted to say that) but have a trip planned for next week. Thanks to all that commented. I look forward to being a part of the ?lan community.

[Mazzini]

It's a pleasure to have you on board