Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I have fitted an MT75 Ford gearbox the Twin Cam in my S4 Elan because I've always felt that it needs that 5th gear, especially with increase in motorways and dual carriageways that have been built since 1971. However, the front cover plate from the original Corsair box does not fit the MT75.
Has anybody managed to make one, and how did they go about it please?

John,

This may not help, but when you took the gearbox from, what I presume was a Scorpio, you should also have the plate that fits between the engine and gearbox on the Scorpio. In my case this plate joins the engine to the gearbox and also suits the 3 bolt starter that you will need.

If you do not have this plate, try Spyder (Andy Widnall). Spyder use the MT75, and may have a source of these plates.

Failing this, my car is still in bits, and I think the local laser profiling company could copy it. I am not sure what accuracy is required or what can be achieved by laser. I think the profile company have a minimum order charge of ?40, as that is what they charged me last time I used them.

I am using a LRS 736 starter (L=Lucas) modified by Lancashire Rotating Electrics (Pete) to have a 10 tooth pinion to suit the Scorpio ring gear I am using. I chose this starter as it fits the gearbox and I think the solenoid will clear all other components. I say 'I think' because although I have tried it in the chassis, I have not put the body on the chassis.

I am using a cross flow flywheel, lightened to the same weight and profile as the twin cam flywheel, re drilled for an RS 2000 pressure plate with an RS 2000 friction plate.

The whole lot is not together in the car yet, but I think I have it correct!

If you want a copy of the engine to gearbox plate, please post a reply and I will get a firm price from the profile company.

Richard Hawkins