rough idle

[smudge]

I know this subject has been gone over in many ways and I've read most of them.

My problem seems minor compared to some but just as annoying. To start with the car runs like a dream (on the move!)
but when engine is warm the idle is sometimes OK other times it can just stop running or go down to 300rpm then return to normal and while reversing on depressing the clutch the engine stops
The other thing I do notice is the exhaust fumes do smell a bit petroly (if that's a word ).
The engine management light when first turn the key comes on as normal then flashes once and goes out,

Anyone any ideas
thanks for looking t my post,
Ray

[Specky]

Would you have Elan scan?

TTFN

[RayD]

Ray,

If you haven’t already done so, for the sake of five minutes it may be worth checking this

Ray.

[DaveB]

Hi

The words...'depressing the clutch' struck a chord with me...

....I had a problem with stalling occasionally when dipping the clutch and it turned out to be the clutch cable 'tensioning and moving' and hitting the electrical plug to the boost sensor(??) on the bulkhead...

...it did not cause rough idle as such, just stalled every now and again, worth looking at though.

David

Good luck

[smudge]

Thanks guys for the help, been working all weekend so not had a chance to look at the Lotus. I don't have Elan scan not quite sure how this works! I will have a go at the paper clip trick and also look at the clutch cable just in case it is causing problems.
Let you know how I get on many thanks,

Ray

[Coupeboy]

I had identical symptoms to OP and turned out was mismatched idle speeds in and out of service mode. I now have a switch below the clock to short out the ECM test connector and 'activate' the service mode/fault codes on a whim. Saves grovelling under the dash every time. If you want an OEM 'switch', foglight switches are on the Lotus aftersales for a fiver.

[smudge]

Well being a virgin service mode user I was expecting things to be a little more difficult but did the paper clip thing and adjusted the idle speed (although there wasn't much adjustment needed). So far things look good only time will tell.
thanks all for your input. Still get the engine management light flash on once when turning on the ignition though, (don't have Elan scan)

Ray

[theelanman]

Still get the engine management light flash on once when turning on the ignition though, (don't have Elan scan)

Ray

that what is supposed to do....flash once then stay on until you start the car

[smudge]

thanks Theelanman,
now I know all is well just love driving the car even in the wet 'though a little wet on the knee

Ray