LCR Forum

The first of many questions!

I took delivery of a 66 Lotus Cortina yesterday and I need to go through the mechanicals before I drive it... it's been off the road for 25 years.

I already have rebuild kits for the brake and clutch systems and a new thermostat and cam cover gasket on the way. I need some recommendations on plugs, oil and filter so please chime in.

Also, and possibly most importantly, how much oil does a Lotus Cortina hold!

Thanks!

John

Post some pics John - is it a car known to the club?

Plugs - NGK BP6ES
Oil - Valvoline 20/50
Filter - type ?? - paper or canister screw on??

Screw on filter and don't forget the all importand 'how much oil" question!

I'll give the pictures a shot but I may need a little instruction. Most of the pictures are from the previous owner in Colorado however the picture in the trailer is in front of my office in Las Vegas.

Thanks for the parts advice and with any luck it will be running tonight.

That looks a very correct car. You can buy a copy of the handbook from the club which will give you all the basic maintenance info. including oil capacities.

Good luck.

Dave B

Great car and good luck.

Other, check out BAT - that's where I first saw this car come up for sale. My car is almost identical condition wise with the exception of a repainted flash. Even the dash cracks look the same

Love BAT!

Bring a trailer if you are not familiar!

Hello John,

If you haven't found out yet, sump capacity is 8.4 US pints. If your not aware, make sure you use a mineral based oil that's suitable for our cars. I always use Castrol 'Classic' XL 20/50 but it's very much a personal thing.

Dave B

Hi John
Great car
I have its twin sister VIN number 50024, which is only a couple of numbers from yours, the cars must have been made next to each other in the factory
David

If it has been stored for that long then gearbox and diff oil should be changed as well.
Also, brake & clutch slave cylinders, calipers, servo and all joints should be checked in case they have seized which will need more than a rebuild kit if there is any corrosion

Hi Pete,

Not according to Wayne Carrini on "Chasing Classic Cars". All he ever does is gets his ace mechanic Roger to rebuild the Carburrettor (on every car he finds) and away he goes up the Freeway in a $500,000 classic for a road test!!
The following week its at auction after a polish and it sells for $750,000!

Andy M