Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I filled car up (shows just over 3/4 full) and it now leaks from the inlet pipe rubber elbow. Seems like when reasonably full, the fuel sits in the elbow. Who would design it like this? Am I just overfilling or is it a feature of the car? Are there known solutions apart from running with half a tank.

acoster,
It's a feature of the car that the fuel sits in the elbow when the tank towards 3/4 full but it will not leak if the elbow is in good condition and the hose clips are tight.
Cheers
John

As said, a feature. My filler elbow was very hard and could not be fitted correctly. After replacement it sealed OK. From memory I think it is a 2 1/4" elbow; was able to get one at an industrial supply.

If you can soften the elbow in hot water, it should seal well. If you can't soften it, it's too old and needs replacing.

Mike

Ok - thanks elbow replacement it is then....

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/57mm-2-1-4-90 ... 983wt_1037

Does anyone know if the silicone hoses are more resistant to petrol? You can buy them in lots of different angles.

I bought a turbo set for my diesel Ford and they were cheaper than replacing the 1 split intercooler hose supplied by the Ford Main dealer (which I sent back).

Jason

well I bought a silicone hose and am fitting this weekend so will find out. My research suggests you can buy straight fuel and oil resistant hose but the elbows are a bit vague about fuel resistance. Must be better than existing one... I hope

Yes I found out to my cost recently that all of this "rubber-ish" fuel pipe is now only classed as "fuel resistant" and not "fuel proof".
The point being that there are various levels of leakage and it's not easy finding out which has the least.
But obviously anyone with a +2 does not mind the odd smell of petrol anyway.
Cheers
John

Hi,

My understanding is that silicone hoses are not suitable for use with petrol if going that root you will need a Fluoro-silicone rubber.

Regards
Steve