Re: first post here.. Spyder elan +2 driven
Posted: Tue Mar 11, 2014 9:43 am
stugilmour wrote:Alan, thanks for the excellent write-up. I had no idea of all the differences in the Zetec cars. Just going from memory that my exhaust pipe is diameter 1 5/8". Assuming the larger brakes you mention will dictate the 14" wheels have to stay? My car has the ex-Mini rack, but with the stock uprights, trunnions, etc. I have never checked the turning circle but it seems OK. Your baby looks a bit tired from the track day; her eyes are almost closing. The ride height in your second picture looks very nice. Would all the Spyder Zetec's use the modified double wishbone rear suspension?
Stu
Hi Stu,
Yes the 14 inch wheels are necessary for the front brakes especially if you are using Wilwood 4 pot callipers like I have on the S4.
All the Spyder modified Zetec cars use the rear double wishbone arrangement, the rear hubs are also Sierra items which allows the use of a tunnel mounted handbrake arrangement and of course the XR4i/cosworth brakes.
I had a slight vacuum leak when the photo was taken, this meant the headlamps would raise after an hour or so rather than the normal day or so, she did get spanked thoroughly that day.
There is a list of the basic items needed for a Zetec conversion here http://www.spydercars.co.uk/lotus-elan-2-zetec-conversion-products/ Add gearbox, Engine, Limited slip differential, Throttle bodies, Engine management a full re-trim and paint job and gasp at ?35k minimum outlay if you ask Spyder to build it. You can maybe save ?10k if you do it all yourself including painting (not advised).