QUESTION
I have just installed a fully rebuilt twin cam engine in my Lotus Elan 2+2
Could you let me know what oil you recommend for the transmission and the new engine?
B.C. - Sydney, NSW
ANSWER
If you have a freshly built engine then it is essential to install an approved break-in (running-in) oil.
Preferably you should find a straight SAE 30 oil with high Zinc additives or a 20W50 mineral oil that has no modern day friction modifiers/additives
This type of oil is becoming more difficult to source as the oil companies have a policy of constant improvement so you need to carefully read all the product labels
A suitable break-in oil may be sourced from Driven Racing Oil in Queensland
https://www.drivenracingoil.com.au/product/gp1-30w-break-in-oil/
Once the engine has been run-in then I recommend you switch to a full synthetic oil such as Nulon 15W50 which is readily available at most good automotive stores
https://lotusmarques.com/info/knowledge-base/878-lotus-elan-2-recommended-engine-oil
For the differential (1.20 litre) and gearbox (0.99 litre) it is recommend a fully synthetic oil 75W90 be installed
Please check the Lotus workshop manual for the original recommended lubricants and volumes required
Copyright © 2022 Lotus Marques
I have just installed a fully rebuilt twin cam engine in my Lotus Elan 2+2
Could you let me know what oil you recommend for the transmission and the new engine?
B.C. - Sydney, NSW
ANSWER
If you have a freshly built engine then it is essential to install an approved break-in (running-in) oil.
Preferably you should find a straight SAE 30 oil with high Zinc additives or a 20W50 mineral oil that has no modern day friction modifiers/additives
This type of oil is becoming more difficult to source as the oil companies have a policy of constant improvement so you need to carefully read all the product labels
A suitable break-in oil may be sourced from Driven Racing Oil in Queensland
https://www.drivenracingoil.com.au/product/gp1-30w-break-in-oil/
Once the engine has been run-in then I recommend you switch to a full synthetic oil such as Nulon 15W50 which is readily available at most good automotive stores
https://lotusmarques.com/info/knowledge-base/878-lotus-elan-2-recommended-engine-oil
For the differential (1.20 litre) and gearbox (0.99 litre) it is recommend a fully synthetic oil 75W90 be installed
Please check the Lotus workshop manual for the original recommended lubricants and volumes required
Copyright © 2022 Lotus Marques
