Lotus 7 S4

Author
Discussion

sir J

Original Poster:

3 posts

91 months

Monday 16th January 2017
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Hi all,
I have a charging issue with my newly acquired S4 and so would like to change over to an alternator , can any one advise what alternator to use and do I need any special fitting brackets? I know the control box will need to go ...thanks J

Batwing 7

63 posts

136 months

Wednesday 25th January 2017
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I replaced mine with a Lucas A127m (A127-14V/70A). Just remember that the existing 'power circuit' wiring will probably not be rated for the increased amperage.



b2hbm

1,291 posts

221 months

Wednesday 25th January 2017
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I have the A127 on my Europa (Ford/Lotus TC engine) and a Lucas 17ACR (34-35 amp ?) on the Elan.

It's so long ago I can't recall if I made up a new lower bracket for the Elan or not, but even so it's no big deal. You can buy the correct plug connector housings on Ebay for both alternators but you might need new terminals on your existing loom. Is your 7 positive or negative earth ? I'd assume negative given the age but my Elan was Positive and so needed that sorting out before an alternator went on.

The A127 is a really neat little unit and in practice I've never seen above 20 amps charging on the meter. If you keep your battery in a good state of charge and don't suddenly add a load more electrics to the car (on a 7, how ???? wink ) I can't see a problem with your wiring.

Lotobear

6,232 posts

127 months

S47

1,325 posts

179 months

Wednesday 1st February 2017
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What tyres are you lot using on your S4's ??
I've used Yoko AO21's 185/70x13" for years, but these are no longer available 'for road use'.
I've seen several S4's fitted with 15/16" wheels, and very low profile tyres, but these look 'Krap' when fitted to an S4 IMO.
Only sizes I'd consider are standard factory fitment 165x13" or the 185/70x13" mentioned above, these have similar rolling radius - any other lower profile 13" sizes lower the car too much, and the wheel/tyre combo look too small under rear arches again IMO.

S47

1,325 posts

179 months

Saturday 11th February 2017
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Anyone converted the 9" rear drums to modern disc brakes?
What discs & calipers did you use?
Did you also change the Brake master cyl?
TA

S47

1,325 posts

179 months

Tuesday 9th May 2017
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Rear Brakes now sorted - 1.5 kg a side lighter than the drumssmile
Here's what you need for anyone interested:-
1. A Pair Sierra Cosworth Calipers
2. Pair Fiesta Mk 2 front discs
4. Caliper mount brackets - buy off ebay or cut existing Drum backplates to suit.
3. Chamge your M Cyl to next size larger - mine went from 5/8 - 3/4" Bore
5. Sierra handbrake cable.
6. New brake pipes to suit calipers [M10x1mm thread]
Plenty of time to fit, Bracket will require fettling, especially if like me you want to use the original 13" 'Lotus Steel' wheels.
SORTEDthumbup