+2 Downunder

[aussieelan]

G?day all,

Without stating the obvious reasons I find myself needing to turn my 2 seater into a 3 seater. With apologies to any Elite/Excel enthusiasts .. it would seem the +2 is my only option. And a good option it is, just a pity there isn?t a convertible version. The ability to carry the extra "passenger" in the back means we won?t have to use the slugmobile (BMW 318is) every time we feel like going out for the day. The +2 also gives me the option of getting back into track day competitions as I am currently unable due to the local regulations as they apply to my current Lotus.

I know something about the marque however my specific knowledge of the +2 variant is somewhat limited. It would appear I have found the right forum and a good place to start, however joining a new forum with 432,000 unread posts is a little daunting. I would be most appreciative of any and all info or post links you guys can supply about the specific differences and item/variations I should be looking at when inspecting a prospective +2.

Located in Australia the ?gene pool? is somewhat limited, I have noticed a couple of other Aussies posting so any info they can give regarding good local contacts, cars currently available or known cars to avoid would be appreciated.

This is the start of a new project and learning curve; I am sure there will be lots more stupid questions before I am finished. I hope to be able to post some pics of a new acquisition sometime in the new year.

Cheers

A

[cliveyboy]

Hello Aussielan.
You might be suprised how active the Aussie Elan scene is with members on this list including a few very knowledgeable racers. You even have your own specialist company the "Elan Factory"
There are Plus 2 convertibles but they have been specially modified.
The way the Elan/Plus 2 is built with its own separate chassis means cutting roofs off is relatively straight forward.

Clive

[rgh0]

Hi A

I am based in Melbourne and have had a Plus 2 for around 25 years ( as well as my Elan for more than 30 years). Most of the issues and concerns with a Pplus 2 are the same as with an Elan if you are more familiar with them.

A few specific issues of difference off the top of my head

Putting a CV rear drive shaft conversion is even more beneficial due to the heavier wieght of a Plus 2

The venting of the fuel tank and sealing of the fuel filler in the plus 2 is a problem with lots of suggested fixes in the posts

Breaking diff output drive shafts and cracking the chassis around the diff mounts is more of a problem in a plus 2 due to its heavier weight

The plus 2 had many variations in the wiring diagram and the electrical system is more complex than an Elans with proportionally more potential problems

The sills are supported by a steel section inside them that rusts away, compared to the lattice used in an Elan ( which also rusts away)

The plus 2 handles better than an Elan on the limit with its wider wheel base and track contributing to greater stability and grip. There is also more room under the guards so 185/60 x 13 tyres can more easily be fitted.

Send me if you need any specific issues discussed

regards
Rohan

[ppnelan]

Also there's the 5-speed option, black or oatmeal trim (black gets very hot if left in the sun!), do you want the 4-fuse wiring of a later (& early?) car or the ump-teen fuse wiring of the late-ish cars, and here in the UK a pre-1973 built car qualifies for free road tax. All these were in my list of considerations and it took a me few months to find the right car. If your choice is limited, you may have to compromise, or import one...

Matthew

[Stuart+2]

Hi Aussieelan

I'm a Sydney-based +2 owner.

The only cars I'm aware of for sale are a 1968 model (same as mine) for sale through the Elan Factory site for $25k and one at Brooklands in Melbourne that I've driven (paint scheme didn't do it for me although it drove well).

Might be worth a look if you haven't already.

Good luck