New Member, New Owner - Need help

[brandenh]

Hi everyone, I've been a car guy for quite some time. Needless to say, when the offer of a 1985 Lotus Turbo Esprit came up, I took it without even thinking twice . Trouble is, I've never worked on an engine like this, or anything quite like anything on this car. I could sure use a repair manual, but I don't know where to get one. Does anyone know the best place to buy parts for this car? Are parts swappable with any normal cars? I live in MI and there aren't many lotuses at all. I've seen 2 in this state. Any recommendations are appreciated. I'll be posting a few of the problems I have with the car, because I began work heavily on it today and I don't want to screw anything up! I look forward to getting to know all of you. Thanks again, Branden.

[techspy]

I recently ordered a full set of manuals, IE: basic shop manual, electrical and fuel system supplement. I paid around $300 for all. I got them from www.davebean.com. They had them in stock and I received them within a week. You can also order a supplemental ABS manual, but its probably best to leave any problems in that area to an expert. This is all for in reference to a 94 S4, an older model may not have, or need any additional supplements.
As far as parts from other vehicle, yes, there are a lot of parts on the Esprit that are either from another vehicle, or can be replaced with parts from another vehicle. Take a couple hours and read through all the info on www.espritfactfile.com, and you will gain some great info on parts and maintanance.
Have fun with your new toy!

John
94 S4

[cnh1990]

There is a large Lotus presence in MI. There is a Lotus club there.
www.geocities.com/bbcuyler/glll.html
Calvin

[lotusguy]

Branden,

Congratulations! The '85 is one of the best models in my opinion. What is your serial # and engine #? Do you have one of the MY cars? these are pretty rare as only 61 were produced worldwide.

I have completely rebuilt my '85MY from total engine rebuild, tranny, clutch, cooling system, brakes and some suspension work. Feel free to call on me for any assistance you may need. I can help you flatten the learning curve considerably. Happy Motoring! Jim'85TE

[maggio]

Branden,

Welcome to Lotus land. I too am from the Michigan area but have not had any luck seeing an other Esprits on the road. In fact, the GLLL Lotus Club & website in Michigan seems to be abandoned. When you have any questions please post a subject (like you did) and you will get excellent replies. Jim '85TE has been very helpful to me numerous times. Good Luck, Jim '87TE

[cnh1990]

I think Brian and the club in MI is still active. It is a bad time to try and contact Lotus club members as LOG North America is happening this weekend and many members are in transit or are already there in Niagra Falls.

There are rumors of a large amount of Lotus cars crossing over to Windsor, Canada from Detroit then continuing on the Niagra Falls.
Calvin

>> Edited by cnh1990 on Thursday 14th August 17:57