[mvesprit]

I am getting a 98 esprit in a few days.
During my searches I saw that many
Esprits had the exhaust changed from either
single tailpipe or dual exhaust to the newer
center dual exhaust with the stainless mesh
I like that look and was wondering if anyone
knows how to go about doing that. I live
north of Atlanta so there is a dealer, but is this
something that is done 3rd party??
thanks for any input

PS is there anyway to change the steering wheel!!!!

 

[Mr. Esprit V8]

1. Get a rear center exhaust valance (your choice of circular perforations or slotted perforations) -- best deal is from JAE, or you can opt for OEM parts from an authorized Lotus dealer.

2. Get a pair of center exit straight pipes

And you're done.

Contact Jeff at JAE - Vintage and late model Lotus car parts specialists and he'll set you up. He's a really nice and knowledgeable guy -- I just bought a pair of Hyper-Flow high-flow cats from him, and his recommendations were valuable.

Good luck!

-Will
Ardent Red/Magnolia V8

 

[Paul S]

I am getting a 98 esprit in a few days.
During my searches I saw that many
Esprits had the exhaust changed from either
single tailpipe or dual exhaust to the newer
center dual exhaust with the stainless mesh
I like that look and was wondering if anyone
knows how to go about doing that. I live
north of Atlanta so there is a dealer, but is this
something that is done 3rd party??
thanks for any input

PS is there anyway to change the steering wheel!!!!

I changed to a Aluminum wheel w/airbag from Raid in Germany. Not inexpensive and requires an adapter plate but the look/feel is worth it. Check the Esprit fact file as Karl helped with the adapter and you should find info there...

 

[mvesprit]

HOLY COW!!! I checked espritfactfile and wow that looks like a job to
replace the steering wheel -- Pontiac for now LOL..
as for the exhaust valance should I feel comfortable to let a good
body shop complete the job once parts are in hand

thanks

 

[E5PR1T]

If you want to get someone to work on the exhaust for you. Then get a muffler shop to do the center exhaust w/the exhaust tips that you like...I'm sure they can install the valence for you.

Alan

 

[sec-guy]

Exhaust is the easiest thing you can do...

I took video of my 99 stock, then when I had the muffler off, then with the new Larini center exhaust installed.

It took only slightly longer than filling the tank to swap the exhaust. It really is quite simple.

If you're interested in the short exhaust comparison video, let me know.

 

[carbuff]

HOLY COW!!! I checked espritfactfile and wow that looks like a job to
replace the steering wheel

It's NOT that difficult, I have assisted with two conversions.

You just need to know which end of the soldering iron to hold. :huh: Easy to learn...

 

[maz]

if it is a 98, get a compression test, and a leak down check before you buy. forget abouit the exhaust for the time being and get a bigger radiator.

 

[mvesprit]

I would love to see the video of the before/after
as for the compression test, already have the car
too late for that - is the radiator a big problem??
where should I get a compression test done and what
should I look for to see if it is needed

thanks

 

[Huskerbill]

Do a few searches in your area of an exhaust place that works on exotics. Have them build you an exhaust.

Instead of going with the '02 exhaust, you would be better off having an exhaust shop custom build you one. It will be cheaper, lighter (way), less restrictive, etc.. Everything you pretty much want.

I changed my exhaust from the original ('97) to an '04 look. Got the center valence from Viking Motorsports in Costa Mesa, CA. Ask for Harry.

Jeff at JAE is also good for sourcing everything Esprit. I am currently working on something special from there right now but am keeping that a secret......

;-)

By the way, here is my exhaust.....Before and after!!