Front damper replacement

[HardTop]

Suggestions ,please, on how to compress the front springs so as to replace the damper

[steveww]

Due to the small spring size regular off the shelf spring compressors will not work. I have been told that a motor bike service shop may be able to help as the front damper/spring unit from the Elan is similar to a bike rear unit. Alternatively you will have to make up your own compressor device from some threaded rod and bars.

[types26/36]

how to compress the front springs so as to replace the damper

See this thread
http://www.lotuselan.net/forums/viewtopic.php?p=61305

[neilsjuke]

[HardTop]

Thanks for the selection of ideas
I think with my workshop facilities the ideas in the old thread look like a good choice
Thanks to all

[Foxie]

Here's my solution, made up from a suitably sized pipe flange, some threaded bar, some 1" x 1/4" flat bar, and some heat and weld.

A bit lighter than a Puller Press !

Sean

[Foxie]

Doh !!

Photo now attached !

[frearther]

Not having much in the way of machine shop facilities at my disposal, I simply used three nylon web clamps with ratchet mechanisms. they cost a few dollars each at the hardware store. I strung them through the coils and tightened the ratchets alternately until the spring had decompressed enough. Cheap and quick

[Bruce Crowthorne]

I am with Art on this one.
Just get some ratchet straps and they slide between the spring and the body. Ratched them down bit at a time and bob's your uncle.

No machining, minimum cost (I had mine lying in the garage) and work on any 1.9 inch set up