Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I have an S4 with a (reconditioned) original rack that has 2.6 turns lock-to-lock, which is correct to period Road Test specifications I have seen.

I also have a 1972 +2 with 3.5 turns lock-to-lock, and several other (probably ex +2) racks that are also 3.5 turns. The wheels do not foul the body on the +2 so it all works OK. It seems to have the correct spacers in, and I cannot see what is different as I do not have a 2.6 turn rack to dismantle.

My questions:
Is 3.5 turns correct for later or +2 models ?
What do other people have on Elans & +2s ?
How is it that I have the correct spacers but end up with 3.5 turns ?

Thanks,
Matthew

Hi,
I believe that the 2.6 turns rack & pinnion is the correct ratio for S4 Elans & the larger, heavier +2 Elans should have the 3.5 turns rack & pinnion. However in those days of organised chaos it could have turned out that in certain cases vehicles were built with whatever steering rack was available.
Regards
john