'70 Elan S4 Front Suspension

[collins_dan]

I want to take apart the front end of my S4 and replace bushings,
clean up and paint frame... Any good resource for how to go about
this, or just start taking apart. Seems pretty straightforward, but
would like to have something to reference if there's anything good
out there. Thanks. Dan

[elansprint71]

Dan,
As you said it is straightforward, if you have the workshop manual and the parts book you have everything you need. If you have not got these - why not?!
It might be an idea to keep the LH parts separate from the RH parts but other than that just get stuck in.

Cheers,
Pete
----- Original Message -----
From: collins_dan2000
To: ***@***.***
Sent: Monday, January 03, 2005 10:44 PM
Subject: [LotusElan.net] '70 Elan S4 Front Suspension



I want to take apart the front end of my S4 and replace bushings,
clean up and paint frame... Any good resource for how to go about
this, or just start taking apart. Seems pretty straightforward, but
would like to have something to reference if there's anything good
out there. Thanks. Dan
















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***@***.***

[motocicletta at aol.com]

Taking down the front end is a pretty straight forward job. The Lotus shop
manual or an equivalent for a Triumph Spitfire/GT 6 (that's what it is) should
be all the reference you need. The only specials would be a spring compressor
if you want to change dampers as this spring is very long and small in
diameter. I had to make one. The spring damper unit in the front comes out as a
unit so you don't have to worry about it as you pull it from the car. Otherwise
a small ball joint removing tool would be nice for the upper joint and you
will probably need someone with a hydraulic press to remove the inner bushings.
Make note as you take in apart as to which side the uprights come from. They
look the same but the trunnion thread on the bottom is different from side to
side, left and right hand threads.
Good luck
Jeff Manuel
65 S2