Installing dash Elan Sprint FHC

[bloodknock]

Hi people
Just installing dash assembly into car, next stage is to fit steering column. Through manuals and this forum Ive got the assembly sequence and parts figured out...Almost. However, Ive got one wire in the Ignition Switch cable that is making me scratch my head. Its a brown fabric covered wire that I cant positively identify....See photos
Any advice would be appreciated
Regards
Bob

[lotusfan]

Hi Bob

I recall having a 'spare' wire when I installed my Sprint dash. From memory it was not ignition switch related but the headlight flasher lead from the indicator switch. Is it conneced anywhere when you pull the indicator switch towards you?

[bloodknock]

Thanks Mike,
Its in the ignition switch loom, not the indicator / lights loom, however I shall investigate further by seeing what connects to what when the ignition key is turned.
I appreciate your help
regards
bob

[bloodknock]

Forgot to say that the wire I'm concerned about is fabric covered, to my mind this fact indicates high current / temperature????

[Craven]

Reminiscent of Cigar Lighter.

[bloodknock]

Thought this might be of use to some one

As can be seen on the ignition lock loom, the brown fabric cable is permanently connected to the white with purple tracer cable, and the brown cable to the brown/blue tracer cable.

I still dont understand why a fabric covered cable is used????
Any explanations? other than " its a lotus and they filched parts from any car that they could work with and the brown fabric cable probably was required in one of these applications"

Regards
Bob

[oldelanman]

Bob,
Have a look at this thread......lotus-electrical-f38/elan-sprint-ignition-switch-t25805.html

From post by Alan71....

Some more photos of a Sprint ignition switch. The brown braided type cable isn't part of the wiring loom, it goes to the radio

Would also explain why your cable has a female connector so it's insulated if a radio is not fitted.

[bloodknock]

Hello Roger,
thanks for that, the fog has lifted. I dont know how i manage to miss all of this incredibly useful information in this forum. I'm most grateful for your guidance and forebearance.
Still curious as why the cable is fabric covered!
regards
Bob