Webcon UK Ltd

fgrimley · New user Joined: 15 May 2009 Posts: 2

I have a 1970 lotus elan on recently scratch built on new Spanish DCOE 45's. The engine is a full race unit developing 173 bhp built by a highly regarded engine builder. He has fitted the carbs and run the engine on a dyno. I have not managed to get to a race yet with the engine having now gone on fire 4 times during practice after 10 minutes of running. The fire appears to be caused by fuel from the carbs going onto the distributor and settng fire. That only appears on track with the inertia of cornering. The fuel appears in the pockets at the top of the carb near the inlet manifold where the 3 screws are. I have met another Lotus elan builder with the identical problem who has had 5 fires. The only cure was fitting the old Italian made DCOE 45's. Strangely on both cars the fire has also started 5 minutes after the engine had stopped due to the wiring burning through. In both cases the car distributor cover burst into flames. Sounds mad I know but this is causing me and lots of people who have tried to fix it some concerns. Just about to purchase a set of old Italian made 45's. Any suggestions? Frank.

fgrimley · New user Joined: 15 May 2009 Posts: 2

By the way the fuel pressure is 3psi. Float heights and jetting are correct. I have now had to purchase a set of old 45's type 09. The other car I mentioned has fitted the old type and is totally cured? Seems to relate to the Spanish carbs?