Head to Block Breather Tube Issue

[mwhitaker]

Hello- I tried a variation of Carlos' breather tube modification to fit the breather tube in situ with removal of the front carb only leaving the rear carb and fuel pump in place since I didn't feel like taking that much of the car apart! I bought 2 replacement breather tubes, one to use as a guide and cut out the central bit as per Carlos to shorten overall length. Then I took a 3/4 plumbing anodized fitting and put both end bits on for telescoping purposes-the fit was quite tight w/o clamps required. After pushing the ends together to shorten length, I engaged the distal end to the block first then the proximal bit for the head. Given you are using one hand only and its tough to see small mirrors in place help with visualization. Otherwise, it requires plenty of swearing, twisting and silicone sealant on both ends. I found the replacement tubes here in the US from RD enterprises were rather inflexible even with heating and I just didn't have the strength to bend them in the middle as others have. Have gone for a long run and idle period and without a leak so I am happy so far. The tube I pulled out had ruptured in many places despite being supposedly replaced 15 years ago with engine rebuild- 15k miles back. I didn't want to have to separate head from block until future needs required.

Please stay safe and Happy Holidays-
Mark Whitaker
69 Elan S4 DHC
45/8396

[borge]

Hi Mark,
thank you for sharing your experiences.

[2cams70]

I use one of these. Fit it and forget it. It won't deteriorate unlike rubber.

https://lotusmarques.com/parts/datashee ... ather-tube

[mwhitaker]

Thanks 2cams-that looks like a nice bit of kit. Will give it a go next when head is off.
Cheers, Mark

69 Elan S4 DHC
45/8396

[borge]

Hi Mark and 2cams

Good solution when the head is off

Mark do you have the opportunity to show your solution with pictures?

[The Veg]

That does look good! Any long-term experience to report? If no troubles then I'll put this on my list for the next time the head is off.

[Panda]

I have been using the Lotus Marques solution for years and have found it 100% reliable and easy to fit. It is available with different diameters to suit L block or 711M.
Happy New Year
Alan P.

[alan.barker]

A good idea BUT if it ever leaks that's a Head off job.
I have always stayed with original Rubber Tube +Silicone Sealer no problems. It can also be replaced without removing Head.
Personal choice.
Alan

[Foxie]

I had a few problems with leaks here.

I noticed the upper flange was being distorted where it adjoins the block in the angle under the head.

I now trim off the upper flange towards a "D" shape and don't have leaks anymore.

[HCA]

If you have removed the fuel pump in favour of an electric one, source - or make - a blanking plate with a deflector shroud that protudes under the breather hole. This will fend off splashes from the lobe onto the lower hole that will assist in keeping leaks at bay. I say assist, it will not solve the issue...

https://www.burtonpower.com/fuel-pump-b ... fp281.html

[Foxie]

If you have removed the fuel pump in favour of an electric one, source - or make - a blanking plate with a deflector shroud that protudes under the breather hole. This will fend off splashes from the lobe onto the lower hole that will assist in keeping leaks at bay. I say assist, it will not solve the issue...

https://www.burtonpower.com/fuel-pump-b ... fp281.html

How have I missed this after 35 years of Lotusing !

I made up a deflector plate for the oil filler ages ago, this also seems a good idea.

[h20hamelan]

Is that something worth messing with existing block-off plate.
Seems to me, the strength of the L blocker is very important.

Does anyone have the dimensions of the blocker please?

[holywood3645]

These work! No head removal