Braking system on 1966 S3 Elan

[Snoozy]

Hello, I am currently restoring my Elan and have got to the stage where I need to run the brake pipes along the vehicle. I have no parts at all and being a novice I'm not sure what I need. How many male and female brake pipe nuts, brake hose lock nuts will I require. I believe I will also need both a 3 way and 4 way brake union parts. Also roughly how much pipe will I need. Many thanks

[Maulden7]

This section is a bit quiet I'm afraid, so can I suggest you might be better posting the questions here :-

http://www.lotuselan.net

Is your S3 braking system servo assisted, I don't think the early ones were? It will make a difference to your requirements.

[Snoozy]

Ok, thanks for the advice. It is a non servo brake system as it's a very early S3. I'll have a go on the website you've suggested. regards.

[Maulden7]

If it's any help, here's a scan from the Lotus Parts Manual. You can pretty much measure up & work everything out from this.



Edit - lots of folk used a braided flexible hose from the master cylinder to the 4-way union, but if you do this be careful how it is routed. Last year I had this hose burst, resulting in total brake failure at Castle Combe, braking for Avon Rise (just before Quarry) from around 110mph. Fortunately with only minor damage after wrestling with the car & making slow speed contact with the Armco. The hose had been rubbing against the steering column & the steel braiding / inner pipe had worn through!!

Edited by Maulden7 on Tuesday 12th January 13:45

[Snoozy]

That's a great help, much appreciated. Thanks.