Getting the bonnet open - snapped cable

[Jamiezt190]

Can anyone come up with a clever way of getting the bonnet open if the cable has snapped please?

[ericbushby]

You should be able to see the fixing screws for the catches under the dashboard. Two screws about an inch apart vertically. If you can manage to remove or slacken these sufficiently, then the bonnet catch may release or the catches fall down into the engine bay. Either way you are in.
It`s not much fun under there.
I modified mine by soldering two nuts on to a clamp plate which holds the spring catch, with screws passing through the bulkhead from under the dash so that I could always open it that way if needed.
Have fun,
Eric in Burnley
1967 S3SE DHC (heading down south next week, hope it keeps fine)

[Jamiezt190]

Thanks Eric - I hope the weather is good to you. Where down south?

[AHM]

With an assistant as it makes it much easier.

With your finger tips on the back edge of the bonnet.
Push the bonnet forwards as hard as you can and pull up.

Lever the catch back with a suitably thin but strong lever.

Put tape on the bodywork to protect it.

[ericbushby]

Thanks Jamie
Duxford wednesday, Colchester and it`s environs wed,thur, friday then back north to civilisation Saturday
This car has never been more than 50 miles from home since being rebuilt and in the 5 years of my care, so I think it is a bit worried about foreign parts.
Let us know how you get on with the bonnet problem.
I have to mention that or the thread drift police will be on my case.
Eric in Burnley
1967 S3SE DHC

[richardcox_lotus]

Are the latches the same on an Elan and a Plus 2 ?

[pharriso]

Are the latches the same on an Elan and a Plus 2 ?

Totally different

[Jamiezt190]

Thanks everyone- I have managed to get in byremoving the 2 barrels that the cable passesthru and then pulling thecatches witha purpose made hook ( coathanger).
Thanks
J
Ps - main lights not working now LOL !

[Jamiezt190]

Eric - good luck and enjoy the adventure!
J

[bob_rich]

HI Jamiaz

glad U have fixed the bonnet catch. On My +2 I was worried in case that happened so during the rebuild I drilled a couple of 3/4" holes in such a position that I could get the tool in the attached picture through and pull the two individual catches open. Then I fixed in with sealant two rubber plugs to seal the hole. If that happens now I just use the tool to push out the plugs hook on and pull open. Carry the tool in the tool kit. For the boot I also fitted a strong nylon cord the the boot mechanism in case that failed. Cord is anchored behind the bar seat back and easily accessible.

I know its a bit "after the horse has bolted" sort of thing but at least if it happened agin the horse won't get away next time !

Best of luck

Bob

[Jamiezt190]

Bob, many thanks for taking the time, it is great advice. My ecperience after 5 months of ownership is that continual access to the engine is a must lol. I had to laugh on sunday - bonnet sorted and the headlamps failed ( I think a connection has dropped off the heat cur off !!). Its like having a new birn in the house again!
Its a fab car though!!!
J