Not the ‘Monza Record Car’ but it’s history is much more interesting - the unearthing of #168
#168 had until 1995 been displayed in 'The Hayashi Collection' museum at Mt. Fuji, Japan as the 'Monza Record' car since the mid '80's. When the new owner (Tavilla Van Shute) attempted to get the vehicle authenticated it was very quickly discounted as the 'Monza Car'. Despite it's appearance and chassis plate (fake), first and foremost it was an S1 chassis whereas the record car was an S2. In November 2000 Mike Studley acquired the car and set about discovering the truth about it with the help of Rob Lyall, Jay Sloane and Victor Thomas - well known Lotus XI historians. By tracing back through records of ownership and speaking with owners/restorers and agents wherever possible it has been verified that this vehicle is indeed #168 a Lotus XI Le Mans
Owners / Drivers include Gordon Jones, Jack Wescott, Peter Arundell and Gerry Marshall
Car is now fully restored as follows: -
Chassis:
Sand blast and check for cracks
Design and Fabricate custom removable roll bar
Replace and repair tubing as needed
Fab mount for new trans
Powder coat frame
Clean and test radiator
Suspension:
Crack test all parts
Disassemble and rebuild calipers with new seals,pistons and KFP brake pads
New girling master cylinders
Replace rubber lines with Aeroquip braided steel
New front billet spindles and wheels bearings
Rebuild differential with new seals and output shafts
Rebuild rear hubs with new bearings and splined drive shafts
Replace all rubber bushings
Custom Fuel-Safe fuel cell
Rebuild steering rack with new track rod ends
Engine:
Convert and build to 1220cc
New Moldex billet crankshaft
Carrillo rods
JE pistons
Manley valves
Isky springs
Aluminum flywheel and Tilton single plate clutch
All new bearings, seals etc.
Dynoed at 120 hp
Trans:
New Richmond "dog ring" type sprite gearbox with annular throw out bearing
In addition NEW38DCOE Webers have been sourced and fitted. There is a huge and interesting history file - see additional pictures for more info. Eligible for Mille Migle, Classic Le Mans, Goodwood etc etc
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