Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I have a rear spring with damper insert I installed on my S3 a few years ago. It was new (TTR or Spax?) came with the car, so without thinking I just installed it. I adjusted the shock to medium setting.
Problem is that the ride is so hard it will toss you out of the seat over minor bumps. I presume the PO bought lowered springs that were way to stiff. There were markings at the top of the spring, but don't know what they mean. Anybody want to venture a guess? Thanks.

The code suggests a 12 inch long 90lb/in spring, which would not be hard enough to give the harsh ride you describe. The ride height of your car looks fairly low, so could it be sitting on the bump stops, or the dampers set too firm?

Nick, you might be right on the dampers. I'll check them again. they were rock hard with the body off, but assumed body on and some driving would make them more of an original street feel.

I can't comment on your springs but regarding adjustable rear dampers, in my experience elans drive best on softer damper settings. I would set them at their softest then gradually adjust them one click at a time until you get the combination of roll, handling and ride that suits you.

Thanks to all for the great advice. I believe I may solve my harsh ride at the rear by raising the spring perches by 1-2 inches. This will provide a better ride height and hopefully softer ride. Adjusting the Spax to full soft as well.