Caterham Roadsport advice

[sjm18]

Hi all. About to test drive a couple of used Roadsports tomorrow - both are K-series engines, one is a 1.6 and the other a 1.8. Are there any known problems/ quirks that I should be aware of please? Is one engine known to be more relaible than the other etc.? This will be a second car for me, but will be used for local commuting in good weather and weekend blasts. Will definitely do track days, but have never done one before so will not be thrashing round trying to beat any records - just want to have a good laugh and get home in one piece. Any advice warmly welcomed! Thanks in advance.

[ewenm]

If you are planning track days, check whether either of them has an Apollo Anti-Caviation Tank or a Dry Sump.

[sjm18]

Thanks - is this to stop oil starvation? Sorry for sounding thick, just not mechanically minded.

[ewenm]

Yes, a particular problem with K-Series engines when used on track. Having said that my first K-series did about 90,000 miles with no oil problems until the very end, including track days. An Apollo or dry sump gives better peace of mind.

[andya7]

Compression test the engine as there is a 'known' problem with No3 piston cracking at the piston land with a (slight) loss of power, forged pistons are available as a solution costing (depends who you use) from circa £1000.

(NOTE - warm engine up first before doing a compression test!)

[sjm18]

Ok - thanks all. I'm test driving them with Caterham Cars themselves, so will get a yrs warranty if I go ahead and buy one - which I guess gives some peace of mind?!?

[ccconn]

Which ones are you testing?
I am picking mine up on Saturday from them

[sjm18]

There is a blue Roadsport at £15k and an orange/ black noseband at £17500. What did you go for? How did you find it dealing with them? I'm meeting Dominic

[ccconn]

Found Dominic to be very good
In fact I met him the first time round and frankly he was one of the reasons I ended up thinking of buying
In the end I dealt with Anthony who was fine
They seem pretty good and are happy to take you out etc and cane the car!
When all is said and done they are a business and they do not discount a penny on used or used cars so if you fancy a bit of negotiation you will be sorely disapointed!
Having said that cant wait!
Have fun
C

[rubystone]

sjm18 said:

There is a blue Roadsport at £15k and an orange/ black noseband at £17500. What did you go for? How did you find it dealing with them? I'm meeting Dominic

Bear in mind that you're looking at private Superlight(or even SLR) money and indeed haven't Woodcate got a decent SL?...I know which I'd rather have!

[ccconn]

Yeah have to say £17,500 was a bit steep for me so yes take the point!