How do I remove the steering column cowling

[Kjeld]

Posted this in the Electronics section.

http://www.lotuselancentral.com/forum/v ... php?t=7398

Can someone tell me how to remove the cowling so I can get at the turn signal cluster? I didn't want to force it much, since the plastic cowling seems fragile.

Also, could someone describe where the flasher unit can be found?

thanks

[Enright]

There are 7 screws in the bottom half of the cowl.

2 of them have long spacers, which also need to come out.

And the upper cowl won't come off completely without either removing the steering wheel or cutting through the ring that goes round the column.

[johnbenk]

See below picture should explain.

[Kjeld]

7 screws? Wow, I can only see 2. Is this a US vs Euro model distinction?

I have the 2 screws out and the cowling split, I just don't see how they will clear the ignition switch and stalk clusters without some serious bending (and potential cracking).

Do I need to take off the molding that surrounds the Steering column (not shown in the diagram)?

thanks

[delta]

Hej Kjeld

The cowling is normally fixed with only 5 screws (IIRC) , where 3 are hidden behind the kneepad, so you might have to get that off. With all screws off, the lower part can be easely removed. To remove the toppart the steeringwheel and the boss has to get off, to allow you to lift the front a litle and slide it toward yourself. With a litle care it will pass both ignition and stalk cluster without problems.

Look at the drawing John did send, and you'll get the picture.

The flasher relay is in the main relaygroup, behind the kneepad. You can feel your way to the group if you stick your arm around the pad from the foodwell, so check with the manual and find out which one you have to pull. (Can't remember)

NB.!!!:
Notic the orientation of the legs, as the relay is hard to install in blind, if you don't know which way is up or down.
Delta

[Kjeld]

Tak Delta. I didn't realize the molding around the steering column was called a knee pad. So, how do I remove that? Seems as though it could be pulled off, but I was not sure enough to try.

On another note, has anyone seen the problem of fuses blowing out in the turn signal and emergency flasher circuits? Noticed the arcing sound again, when the right turn signal is switched on. Seems like it could be from the turn signal switch, but maybe behind that. The left hand side makes no arcing sound.

Tak again.