Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

Hi, I bought an alternator from Sue Miller (powerlite RAC056) several years ago + alternator fitting kit of Kelvedon.
Now, I want to instal this alternator, but now I determine that its too big on my lhd Elan S3.
There is not enough space, and it hits the steering column ! See the pictures.
Is there anyone who can help me to solve this problem? Or which is a good alternative ?
Many thanks, for helping me.

Michel (from Belgium)

Both RD Enterprises and Dave Bean Engineering in the US sell alternator conversions that fit. I believe the use 35 amp Nippondenso alternators. Not sure. What model, or what other cars it’s on.

I was told by an alternator shop that the 35A denso was used on towmotors/forklifts.

I got both my Denso alternators from Suzuki Swift/Metro Geo at the local Pick A Part. Both were 55amp. DUI in the US also sells Denso 55amp alternators converted to one wire operation. I used those on my race engines. Small, and weigh about 6lbs. If you do use the junk yard approach, be sure to also take the wiring connector from the wiring harness, makes a nicer/easier installation. These alternators are also used on small tractors, Kubota, etc., but at a lower amperage. I went with the 55 amp versions because of electric fans.

As already said - the Denso is the only way. Much better than Powerlite and is lighter. You will be fine with a 40 unless you are running serious rally lights. If though you have 250€ to burn, Denso have recently launched a very natty lightweight two wire 50A version…

Denso only has one mounting lug, so you will need to pack out the mounting bracket. Or better, make a new one to suit.

Did you specify lhd when you purchased the Powerlite?

This is what I bought when my RDent supplied alternator failed : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KL51IM8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1, cost is $85

Mike Spence wrote:Hi, I bought an alternator from Sue Miller (powerlite RAC056) several years ago + alternator fitting kit of Kelvedon.
Now, I want to instal this alternator, but now I determine that its too big on my lhd Elan S3.
There is not enough space, and it hits the steering column ! See the pictures.
Is there anyone who can help me to solve this problem? Or which is a good alternative ?
Many thanks, for helping me.

Michel (from Belgium)

For the record, LHD cars had a different alternator mounting bracket to avoid this exact issue. Search on here & you'll find info, though I am sure the LHD bracket is very difficult to find & the Denso alternator is the way to go.

I think this is the one I fitted to my (RHD) car: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081SB17E/

Works well, I need need to add a switch live connection for it with it being a 3 wired alternator.

There was a different bracket for the LHD cars with an alternator to lift up the alternator a little to enable the large Lucas alternator to fit. Not easy to find these days and the smaller Denso alternators can fit as others have said

cheers
Rohan