This past weekend I went back up to MD to assess the state of 4173R and to bring it back home.
The assessment was held Saturday. Phil, Chris, Jeff, and Norm from the DC Lotus Club came over and we looked over the car. First thing that was tackled was the engine to see if it was seized. Earlier in the week Phil added oil to the cylinders. Upon removing the cam cover, we were all a bit shocked. The cams looked like they were brand new. Evidently someone had done some work to the heads and cams. We were all pleasantly surprised and waited to verify that the engine would turn. We put it in gear and rolled it on the trailer to get the engine to turn. Sure enough, oil popped out of the spark plug holes. Subsequently we were able to locate TDC, and attempted to confirm the witness marks were visible. Couldn't see the witness marks. Trying to turn the engine with the alternator pulley bolt was unsuccessful.
Pictures below reveal that the engine compartment is "bare", save for the engine, transmission, battery, brake boosters, coil, distributor, fuel tanksand a few odds and ends. Wiring seems to be intact. I have the carbs, which were refurbished. L/H fuel tank may need to be replaced due to rust on the top of the tank.
Went to the interior and was able to confirm that the steering wheel lock and key mechanism was missing. Solved the key issue. Also confirmed that the car has a logic box in the upper left of the dashboard. That will be addressed. There are a few dangling wires under the dash that will need to be addressed. The center piece of the seats are in fairly good shape though will likely be reupholstered. Most of the carpet is in good shape with the exception of the carpets on the floor which will need to be replaced. Dashboard is in great shape. Ashtray is missing the spring.
Cooling system is original both fan and radiator. Since much of the system in the back end is open, the system will need to be flushed to remove any debris.
There is a new brake master cylinder that will need to be investigated further, as will the entire brake system.
Left rear wheel is a bit off, though the assembly seems new and should be easily fixed (hopefully).
I have begun building a parts list, and looking at prices from the various well known vendors.
I drove back Sunday. Nice day for a drive. The car has been offloaded from the trailer and moved into the garage in preparation of work. Not only do I need to procure parts to repair the car, but also "shop equipment" to work on the car. LOL
There is evidence that this vehicle was in the process of being fixed with the clean cams, new rear suspension pieces, and the new master brake cylinder. To what extent remains to be seen.
My first objective is to bring the engine to life - starter, alternator, carbs, exhaust, steering lock/ignition switch, etc.
And so the journey begins.
