This video shows you how to replace every component of the front suspension of a 1997 Lotus Elise Series 1. All parts were purchased from eliseparts.com. Go check them out and let them know Help Me DIY sent you!
I will have another video covering the complete rear suspension as well: https://youtu.be/TaEPIVwCjA4
Lotus Elise S1 Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8ogZBhXvNyYZvroAyAqPsPFacy-Jm_L5
Here are the parts I purchased and replaced:
Suspension Refresh Package: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/discounted-items/suspension-refresh-package/
S2 Bilstein Upgrade: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/dampers-springs/s1-s2-eliseparts-bilstein-upgrade/
Anti-Roll Bar: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/anti-roll-bars-mounts/stiffer-front-adjustable-anti-roll-bars/
Inboard Toe Link Joint: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/ball-joints-toe-rod-ends/inboard-toe-link-joint-a117d0090s/
Outer Toe Link Joint: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/ball-joints-toe-rod-ends/outer-toe-link-joint-s1-elise-a111d0134f/
Driveshaft Hubnut: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/bushes-bearings/s1-driveshaft-hubnut/
Duralac Green: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/corrosion-inhibitors-lubricant/duralac-green/
Ball Joint Removal Tool: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/ball-joints-toe-rod-ends/ball-joint-removal-tool/
Wishbone Bush Tool: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/steering-br-suspension-1/wishbones-mounts/wishbone-bush-removal-fitting-tool/
Track Rod Removal Tool: https://www.eliseparts.com/shop/induction-intake-system/service-items/service-tools/track-rod-removal-tool/
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This video description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.
I am a Do It Yourself, also known as DIY, mechanic. I am NOT a professional mechanic. I do not have any formal training in the automotive field.
Help Me DIY assumes no liability for anything you choose to do to your car, before, or after watching one of my videos or utilizing the content from this web site.
All DIY repairs or modifications you perform to your car are made at your own risk. Sometimes, even if you’ve done everything the right way, you can destroy or damage one or more things on your car. You must understand this, but by leveraging knowledge and patience, the probability of encountering one or more problems can be reduced.
Also, if for some unfortunate reason, I do give incorrect instructions and something breaks because you followed my instructions, I will NOT reimburse or pay in any way for whatever cost that may be incurred due to following my wrong instructions.
Lastly, please don’t do anything to your car unless you yourself feel comfortable and confident in doing so.
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I like Elisepart für my Lotus Elise S1 97 too
Great video! Actually doesnt look as bad as I feared. I have new bushing waiting for me to replace!
The caster washers are the worst job. You're lucky, on my S2 there are multiple washers on one side that all need to be lined up. I found that using a thin punch tool did the best job of pulling them into alignment. The fuse box attachment looks really janky. It's entirely possible Lotus did it that way, but I doubt it. Definitely not the way the S2 is assembled.
Are you sure about brake caliper torque 45Nm only? Just wondering, seems to be low (Porsche 996 = 90Nm / M10)
Tip on the tightening of pivot points in suspension, is they need to be under load then torqued down, so that they won't have the bushings in a bind. Place a support under the lower suspension arm in the area of the ball joint and lower the car till it barely lifts off the frame; then tighten the fasteners to spec .
1st
Hello! In for mods and improvements. Good choice on shock.