early Plus 2 door handles - conundrum

[jono]

..the ones with the integral key/lock.

For my 68 resto I have managed to find a pair of handles in fantasic/NOS condition at a very reasonable price. However when they arrived I noted that the passenger handle is a plain version without the lock and 'drop' section.

I'm conflicted now - I could easily fill the door and fit this handle as you don't really need a passenger side lock but I'm concerned it won't look 'right' (though only the most anal would notice I suspect).

What would other folk do?

[TeeJay]

Hi Jono.

My +2 is a Jan68 and my choice would be to stay original.
I found very good condition ones on ebay
They are listed as another classic car, but I will need to look back to what other car/s they went on.
I also rearranged the lock levers to fit my keys.

[Elseezed]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/353561977866 ... gIBePD_BwE

I would refit original handle. Looks like you have a handle from the rear door without lock from Austin 1100

[mikealdren]

I would refit original handle. Looks like you have a handle from the rear door without lock from Austin 1100

an 1100 or a late model +2

[jono]

I would refit original handle. Looks like you have a handle from the rear door without lock from Austin 1100

an 1100 or a late model +2

Elseezed is quite right, I do seem to have one front and one rear 1100 handle - the late Plus 2 handles are different and off an MGB I think. The 1100 handles are smaller and quite a bit different to the later car handles, notwithstanding their integral lock

[Bigbaldybloke]

I’m in the process of rebuilding my early Plus 2 doors and have just bought a job lot of Austin 1100 handles with the lock integrated in the handle. Only problem is no keys for the locks and the lock part that links between the handle and the mechanism is different in the Lotus. I’ve had the lock barrels out and there are no numbers on them but they are the old FS series. I’m obviously going to use the ones in the best condition but would be happy to pass on a spare left hand door handle for just the postage. PM me if interested and I can provide more info and pictures.

[Bigbaldybloke]

A left side door handle complete with key has just appeared on eBay under lotus Elan parts

[jono]

Thanks for the heads up BBB,

Having checked my existing door handle it look to be in better condition that the Ebay leftie so I'll stick for the time being and see if anything better turns up.

Cheers

Jon