Elan shop in SoCalif?

[pwilletts]

HI Can anyone recommend a mechaic in Southern Calif that knows these cars?

[ajwheels]

I was so hoping to gain some insight here.....I too wonder.....not currently in need, though knowing of a shop or two would be of real benefit.....I hate to think we're on our own here.....

The previous owner of my car used a shop called Checkpoint Automotive in Los Angeles....the person who did the work (new dash install, refurbish entire brake system, CV joints in rear, as well as general tune-up stuff) apparently owned both an Elan and a Seven...the receipts date back a few years, but if in your area, might be worth checking out.....

But then, perhaps that is part of the adventure.....

[StressCraxx]

Frank Sr. is a highly successful driver and shop owner. He raced a Lotus 23B back in the day. They have been around since the early '60s. My neighbor always had her '65 Elan service there from new until she passed.
No website.
Frank Jr. Runs the business now and is very highly regarded.

Frank Monise Motors
8975 Vernon Ave, Unit F
Montclair, Ca

Phone: (626) 795-8741

Primary Phone: (909) 608-7091

[el-saturn]

imo it´s tony ingram of santa barbara: my elan has (btw) a 23B forged crank (farndon) which he sold me 15 years ago - he´s probably americas best. sandy

[StressCraxx]

imo it´s tony ingram of santa barbara: my elan has (btw) a 23B forged crank (farndon) which he sold me 15 years ago - he´s probably americas best. sandy

Tony's expertise at engine building is seldom equaled. He is very highly regarded in vintage racing. Both my son and I have bought cylinder heads and other performance parts from him. Absolutely first rate.

There was another Lotus specialist in the west LA area, Dave Simerly or Smyerly if I recall. One of the long time members might remember him.

John Kouba is another resource, but I believe he has retired from working on cars and has concentrated on building CV driveline kits for our cars, selling wholesale only.

Another suggestion, contact JAE Parts in Santa Maria. They may have a list of good SoCal shops for you.

[rgh0]

Yes I get all of my valve train components and a lot of other components such as Carillo rods from Tony. He has the best range of quality components off the shelf for building whatever type of engine you want and top notch service and a pleasure to deal with and he really knows twin cams in intimate detail

cheers
Rohan

[sabbot]

Depends on how far south in CA you want to go but Bill Schlossnagel in El Cajon, San Diego did some nice work on an engine of mine. He’s not technically a lotus specialist but generally has a lotus or two in his shop. He’s essentially a one man band and always has a fair number of cars in the shop, but if you are not in a hurry he does great work.