[Xrcr6]

First time caller, long time listener.... J/k, been lurking for a little while.

I was wondering if some sort of service/shop manual exists for the current Elise. Something better than say a Chiltons, but less than the price of ~12 volume set for a Porsche. Like a typical Helms publication for an Acura/Honda.

I'd guess if one were to exist for the S1/S2, then they'll probably have a version for the Federalized car.

Just curious since I prefer to do as much maintenance/work on my vehicles as I can practically do. I'd like some reference for proper assembly/disassembly, torque specs., etc. Also for the Solo2 crowd, we need to be in possesion of a shop manual for the Tour/Pro events in case of protest/dispute.

Thanks,
Alan

 

[Xrcr6]

Doh!.... Nevermind, just found Matt G's link in the other forum.

Any idea what the hardcopy typically costs?

 

[Craigy]

The manuals are expensive. Lotus charge 75GBP (approx 110USD) for each one. There's a parts manual and a service guide.

Craigy

 

[Xrcr6]

Thanks Craigy.

That's not too bad. A friends Boxster shop manual consisted of literally 12 binders of info and left him ~$1000 (~620GBP) light in the wallet. And even then there were vague instructions/specs.

Helm Inc. does a lot of manufacturers publications which I've used for some of my vehicles. Depending on the type of manual it ranges, but that price you provides seems in the ballpark.

 

[sandsmuseum]

have a manual

I have one of the manuals, paid about $80 some time ago. I do not suggest getting a current one unless you have a current Elise as much is going to change.

My manual is dated December 1, 1996, and contains 11 sections in a two inch ring binder. The front page is signed by Dave Massey, Senior Techical Autor! The gear box and engine sections are from Rover.

If there is something particular you want to know or see, please let me know. I will add it to my web site. (The drawings of the suspension and some of the car are already on my site, see below).

Michael

http://www.sandsmuseum.com/cars/elise/index.html

see shop manal

 

[jeffc]

I agree with Michael. (Hi Michael!) The S3 will be different enough that an S1 or S2 manual will be of limited use for the new car. The S2 and S3 bodies should be very similar, but the drivetrain and electronics will be different. I'd recommend holding out for an S3 manual unless you're really interested in seeing the changes and want to buy both S2 and S3 manual sets for comparison purposes.

 

[Craigy]

JeffC,
I think the US version of the elise will have different front and rear body seciotns because of the federal requirement for it to pass a 5mph crashtest with no damage.

In short they are going to "uglify/lengthen" the car.

I hope they do a good, invisible job

Craigy

 

[jeffc]

Hi Craigy, I agree the bodywork will be different, but I think the differences will be relatively minor. Certainly the change of engines is a much bigger difference.

 

[Nolan]

You can download a pdf copy of the service and parts manuals from one of the UK dealer websites and see for yourself.

http://www.brooke-kensington.co.uk/pabo4.htm