Lotus Elan and Lotus Elan Plus 2 Forums

I?m restoring a Plus 2 (bought part restored/non runner). Just got around to looking at the rear suspension where the previous owner has done an overhaul on the wishbones, so new bushes. However the bush is fouling on the inside of the rear wheel, I thought these wheels were a standard alloy. Any comments?

Well, first off, that bush looks like it's not pressed in far enough.

What is the other bush like? What are the bushes like on the other side of the car?

This seems to be a tight spot on all cars when it comes to clearance. I had to grind the wishbone down slightly.

I agree......it is tight and ........
the bush fitted looks wrong........

Is that wheel sitting square?

...the bush has either migrated or not been pressed in far enough

The bush needs to be pressed all the way in and the bolt should have a shallow head and the washer needs to be trimmed to avoid the wheel... if it has a washer...I recall mine doesn't to avoid scrapping my wheel

So, the other side is the same and the bushes do appear to be fully home. I clearly have no idea what bushes were used perhaps I need to replace them - recommendations.
To the other points, yes the wheel is on square, yes it is dusty but that probably has something to do with me generation a load of dust up the front end of the car.

It looks like a poly push to me that could/should be inserted the opposite direction.

As stated the clearance here is very tight, a washer or slightly miss aligned wheel will cause fouling against the wheel rim. Personally I've been winder about using a button head bolt in this location as likely offer improved clearence.

Yes, it does seems like that bush is the wrong way round. From other respondants I gather that fitting the poly bush does require some metal off the aluminium carrier.

I would remove the polybush and fit a metalastic bush as original.
Alan

alan.barker wrote:I would remove the polybush and fit a metalastic bush as original.
Alan

Yes, that is the conclusion I have come to thinking about it overnight