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1970 Lotus Elan S4 parting out.

Posted: Sat Mar 28, 2026 8:12 pm
by 1970 cortina GT
Picking up a Lotus Elan S4 tomorrow. Front end damage. Looking to keep the motor, spare for the 2 Cortinas, and part out the rest. Will even be willing to sell the complete car, less motor, if someone’s interested. Still haven’t figured out how to add pictures here but can send any and all pictures to anyone that’s interested. Located near Saskatoon SK. Thanks.

Re: 1970 Lotus Elan S4 parting out.

Posted: Mon Mar 30, 2026 11:52 am
by Brett Wilkie
I bet there is a number of good things to save out of the Elan that will work on the Cortina, the transmission, differential and instruments or a start.

Re: 1970 Lotus Elan S4 parting out.

Posted: Mon Mar 30, 2026 2:55 pm
by 1970 cortina GT
Yep, lots of spares too. Timing chain cover, starter, transmission, workshop manuals, gauges, tonneau cover etc.

Re: 1970 Lotus Elan S4 parting out.

Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2026 11:51 am
by Brett Wilkie
Yes, Lotus spares are always good to have, I remember when I had my Lotus Cortina, one of the things that bothered me most was that front timing cover. The front timing cover contained the poorly designed water pump and when it failed, the whole front timing cover had to be removed. If I ever own another Twin Cam, I will use a redesigned front cover that has an easily removed water pump insert like this Dave Bean unit.
Image

ITS ADVANTAGES!!!

It actually FITS!!!
So many others require various fettling and hacking about with files and reamers, etc.
The insert is actually removable!
After being on the car for 5 years (and it should be), you can still get ours out of the front cover. Everyone else's is usually corroded on. Very careful attention was paid to seal the coolant from the locating registers to prevent corrosive buildup and bonding.
True "road side" replacement.
Jacking bolt bosses are provided to draw out the insert. No pullers or slam hammers required --which you can't use anyway without removing the engine.
The front cover is secured to the block independently of the water pump.
You won't compromise the cover seal when removing the pump.
The W/P mechanicals are heavier duty than originals.
Durability is improved. So you may never even need the quick change features!
It's race proven.

Re: 1970 Lotus Elan S4 parting out.

Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2026 1:22 pm
by 1970 cortina GT
Good info there Brett, I have the new style in my MK1.