Israeli legal tire size problem (1971 +2)

[nitch]

Hello,
After this impossible subject, allow me to explain.
In Israel (that's where I live. a least for now), tires size is part of the cars license, Hence you can't change it without a formal procedure.
My license contain the size 185\65R13, which is quite hard to find over here.
In order to be able to change tire size, I have to bring a document from the vehicles manufacturer.
What other tire sizes do you folks use?
Do you know who can I talk to in Lotus in order to get the piece of paper that I need?

Thank You Very Much,
Best Regards,
Liad Orr

[Rob_LaMoreaux]

Get a copy of the workshop manual or the owners manual, since that tire size is not the size the car left the factory with.

According to Robinshaw and Ross's Authentic Lotus Elan the Plus 2 came with 165/R13 tires.

I don't have a plus 2 manual, since my car is a Just 2, or I'd scan the page and send it to you.

Rob

[schroeder]

Original size was 165R13. I am currently using 185/70X13 Yokohama's. Need to be careful about rubbing on the rear spring perches though, clearance is minimal. I have a manual and handbook which clearly indicates 165R13 but there are no Lotus identifying marks on the relevant pages to make it "official".

[1964 S1]

As hard as the 185/65 size may be to find, can you can locate any 165R/13 tires? If your current tire size works, I'd stick with it. Does Tire Rack ship worldwide?

[cliveyboy]

Liad Orr
Are you trying to go back to original sizes? in which case maybe an original specification sheet or sales brochure might be OK as they give the sizes it would have left the factory with.
Otherwise if you need a letter from Lotus saying a specific type and size of tyre is OK then you need to contact the factory.
Alternatively would they accept a letter from an authorised Lotus dealer or specialist stating the tyre size.

Cliveyboy

[nitch]

Thanks Everyone for your help.
I bought my +2 as a non-runner (it has been standing for 7 years), so I don't even know if the current tire size is OK.
I don't know if 165R/13 are available, however I will check.
What I'm looking for is a tire size which is more available, that will be as close as it gets to Collin Chapman's idea of how it should be.
Cliveyboy, I think that a letter from the factory is required, but if it won't work, I will try the authorised Lotus dealer option.

Best Regards,
Liad

[Si_130/5]

Hi Liad,

I was speaking to Dave Massey at Lotus Cars today and asked if he'd help you, only to find you'd beaten me to it and that he'd already written to you. I hope it all works out ok.

Best wishes,

Si

[nitch]

Thanks Si
I did talk to him, and he was very helpful. I wish I had the option of meeting the Lotus people on a daily basis...
Liad