Fix fuel tank... and do suspension as well

[madbilly]

Hi all,

I need to fix/replace the fuel tank before the Elan goes on the boat to the USA, and I'm going to take the opportunity to put AVOs and new springs on the rear and probably the front too if I get time. It's been a long while since I've had the rear suspension apart, and I've never dropped the wishbones and certainly never had the tank out, so I'm looking for any pearls of wisdom that others have learnt doing this or similar jobs. I know there are threads on the forum about doing this exact job, and I will do my reading, but if anyone has any stand out memories please share

In particular, anything worth replacing whilst I've got it apart! (easy stuff though, please, e.g. I don't have a press handy!).

Update:
For the tank the only thing (apart from a new tank! I'm going to try and plastic weld mine...) I can see from parts diagrams are placement bolts for holding the tank straps on.

I'll get the screws/bolts/washers I don't already have from Dave's handy suspension overhaul list

Dampers and springs.

Will I likely need the spring isolators, fixings kit and top plates?

Cheers

[madbilly]

I've definitely lost my Elan fu, I can't remember what's what with the rear suspension, if it's possible to have tubular top links on a 5 degree life angle chassis - which I'm pretty sure my Elan does. My thinking is that it must be possible because the old U-channel top links aren't available anymore, which is probably how mine ended up with tubular ones before I bought it. I'm pretty sure it's also got galvanised rear wishbones. It must therefore also have various spacers etc fitted to ensure everything works with the older chassis mounts.

The reason I'm thinking about this is that I'm trying to work out which spare parts I need to get in advance of the work in case I need them / want to replace them, but trying to decipher the parts diagrams/lists to understand which of the pre-R6001 parts, which 5 degree or 2.5 degree parts apply to my car, which has newer wishbones and top links, is making my brain spin!

[madbilly]

Here's what I think I've worked out as the parts I need/want - any helpful comments welcome

[HJ2]

Holy cow what a list!

Now i understand the nick "mad" Billy!

[madbilly]

I don't need the full parts lists, just the ones i've noted on the right.

EDIT: I feel an explanation is probably required.

Those overall lists are copies from the Lotus parts lists on Deroure.com. I added two columns to indicate how many of each part I need for this job, notes about that and any links to sources of parts I've found.

My approach is to have a stainless A4-80 spare for any bolt or nut I have to undo (and stainless washers too). Also, spare ball joint for the wishbone and any bushes that can be easily replaced or that might need to be replaced even if difficult (though I'd like to avoid that).

Cheers

[Tuga2112]

no idea if thats too late to help but theres my experience with Suspension and fuel tank

there may be more usefull stuff for you there, if you have questions can always post in the comments or send me a PM here.

I very rarely look at the projects section of the forum, (only keep an eye for the electrical section because i find those issues very intriguing) its easier to reach me in via other means.

this one is going live in september. but if needed, i can send you a separate link

[madbilly]

Hi!
Thanks for all the videos! I'd not seen these before, they'll be handy.
Cheers