Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

Hi Guys,
Its simple really. SU and stromberg rely on Manifold pressure/airflow to lift the piston attached to which is the main jet mixture control needle. No man' pressure / airflow = no lift off the piston & needle. Controls the mixture & compensates for the lack of air flow/density. I think that's more or less it. Carb experts can keep me /us right.

Manifold pressure is really noticable in an airplane and its when man' press'/power equalizes the lift /drag that the aircrafts' ceiling is determined. Our little AA5 Grumman American topped out at about 13k ft. It would not go any higher. No power!...Fit a turbo and double the ceiling (roughly)..Then you have oxygen problems!! Not good.

Thats all folks...

Alex B....

Hello All;

Just returned from 525 mi trip from San Jose CA to Yosemite in my Stromberg S4. No issues on the trip. Car performed brilliantly throughout the trip in 80 & 92 degree weather. Don't try driving an Elan across the CA. Central Valley without plenty of water for the driver. I'm so glad to drive a coupe too! The new Vredesteins (155-13) handled very well on all surfaces and the slightly taller tire did lower my cruising RPMs.
I was a slightly down on power @ 6000" but driveability was not affected. Burned less than 1 qt on the trip and fuel mileage was decent. I didn't see any other classic cars on the trip. The more I drive the Elan, the more confident I am that it is a reliable and entertaining bit of kit. I encourage other Elan owners to get up there and enjoy the ride.

What a great trip. Those blue skies look inviting!

Very good to hear someone enjoying their car as it should be enjoyed.

Well done!

AB....

Even pensioners can get high in the Alps!!

Don't grow up too quickly..........

David

Snap

Is there only one road in the Alps then, boys? And which is worse...an Elan with the hood down or the Plus 2 with it's super-efficient heater?!

David, you have a very early S3....was he a Coupe in a former life?

Mark

Foxie wrote:Snap

12 years ago today. And still going stronger than ever !

from the alps to the island ELBA and back to the alps (1000miles?) -------------------------- that was 20 years ago however: Italians loved this little LOUD car. Elba has roads made for all kinds of loti - even the italian heat (up to 40?C) didn't get to her! sandy