What are these slots for?? - Daytime running lights

[Toys2]

Hi, I was thinking about fitting some daytime running lights to increase the visibility of my BRG Elan on the dark and dirty lanes where I live

I'd prefer something that is hidden when not on, I've found some lights that would fit the cut outs in the bumper above the sidelights (see picture)
Then the thought crossed my mind that the cut outs wouldn't be there without a reason, are they for cooling?

These are the DRL's that I found, shorter than the slot, but a good fit height wise
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/301672692662

[Elanlover]

Not for DRLs' as those weren't in vogue when the Elan was built. Just a design "gap" really. I have purchased the modules you've shown on eBay (one of a dozen purchases to test out possible DRL solutions) and I don't think they'll be noticeable enough on the car. I think your best bet would be to rewire the "parking lights" (whatever you might call them in the UK) so that they come on when the car is started instead of when you turn the lighting system on. Then find yourself a bright LED bulb to replace the dull incandescent one that's likely in there now.

[Toys2]

Not for DRLs' as those weren't in vogue when the Elan was built. Just a design "gap" really. I have purchased the modules you've shown on eBay (one of a dozen purchases to test out possible DRL solutions) and I don't think they'll be noticeable enough on the car. I think your best bet would be to rewire the "parking lights" (whatever you might call them in the UK) so that they come on when the car is started instead of when you turn the lighting system on. Then find yourself a bright LED bulb to replace the dull incandescent one that's likely in there now.

Thanks for the info, I didn't think that the slots were designed for DRL, just concerned that I might be blocking up some vents
I'd already ordered some of those lights before I'd even thought about it, so I'll have a dabble when they come in

I only picked up the car yesterday, but have already changed the sidelights to LED bulbs. The insides of the lenses and the reflects were pretty grimy, cleaning them will help

I was considering another cheap option for DRL, which is to fit higher wattage (or extra) LED's to the sidelight and use a DRL dimmer to dull to normal sidelights when the lights are turned on

[Elanlover]

I'm working on a new led based front indicator module for the FED version (the FED bumper is longer so the "well" the modules sit in is deeper) that will be of the "switchback" variety. In other words, the entire module will be white for DRL's but then flash yellow-off-yellow-off when the indicator is on then switch back to white. This way the entire module will be lit white or yellow (as the situation calls) and be easier to see. I've had the module shell 3D printed and installed the LEDs' but am now trying to get lenses made. I used this little module to provide the control and it will even dim the DRL's when the headlights are on provided you wire them up correctly.

Now, you could do something similar without a lot of custom work that would also be completely reversible to the stock configuration by doing the following:

1) get yourself some clear front lenses (search the forum to find the vendor that makes them for us)
2) take off the front bumper (not that difficult) to access the light modules in the front
3) replace the sockets that have 2 wires with ones that have 3 wires (wish I could remember the actual socket names right now)
4) shop eBay for the appropriate switchback bulbs that have both yellow and white in them and install
5) wire the module quoted above to provide the correct functionality and Bob's your uncle

Wiring up both bulbs in the front to act as both DRLs' and turn indicators with the module in the link will make for decent DRL's and better turn signal lights.

[simonbuk]

Fitted here, good idea as look very neat but might not get them bright enough ?

viewtopic.php?f=18&t=24255&p=305553&hilit=Volcano&sid=eee342df8d9beba3bd1e7a053a83c59b#p305553

I totally agree about dark small cars and country roads, very difficult to be seen by others.

[Simon_P]

The gaps are the fresh air ducts, not a great idea to block them.

[Rambo]

The gaps are the fresh air ducts, not a great idea to block them.

I agree. Those Lotus "design gaps" were actually intended for cooling etc

[Giniw]

(Interesting, I haven't realized that)

[chrisP]

Yes intakes for the ducts that run under (and reinforce) the clamshell - leading to the interior fan intake point - the foam rubber connector in the wheel arch

[Rambo]

Save yourself money.

Just use the existing sidelights with a brighter bulb. But remember to turn them off when you park up. Or install a buzzer as there's only on f in Geof Smith has done. Or go with Elanlovers suggestion of rewiring the lights to come on when the ignition key is turned

[Simon_P]

Or install a buzzer as there's only on f in Geof Smith has done.

Standard equipment on the S2 but not a difficult mod on any car just a 12 v buzzer and 2 wires, one to the light switch and the ground to somewhere in the indicator circuit if my memory serves me correctly.

[Rambo]

You learn something new about the M100 every day. I was under the misapprehension that Geoff had retro fitted this, what with his electrical skills

It would certainly be a good retro addition to the SE. Ive forgotten how many times I've inadvertently left the side lights on over the years

[simonbuk]

Can some lights be fitted behind the two smaller grills on the left and right hand side ? I know one of them feeds the intercooler but shouldn't take up much space ? Whether you can get behind it easily without taking the bumper off I don't know ?

[lotusflasherman]

Can some lights be fitted behind the two smaller grills on the left and right hand side ? I know one of them feeds the intercooler but shouldn't take up much space ? Whether you can get behind it easily without taking the bumper off I don't know ?

The other feeds the oil cooler...

[Toys2]

Thanks for all of the comments, I was sure that the slots wouldn't be there without a reason and I guessed that it might be cooling. I'll leave them as intended

I fitted some basic led bulbs in the sidelights, but have some better ones on order. I'll see how they go

A buzzer was on my todo list as I've nearly left them on a few times already

[simonbuk]

I know its not want you wanted but gives you an idea of an alternative. Fitted to my car by a previous owner I believe they have made me far more obvious down shaded A roads/country lanes. Definitely not going to remove them !!

[Toys2]

Simon, I do like the look, but I want to go for the original style if I can