Description
This is undoubtedly the fastest and best prepared Lotus Super 7 in the U.S. It is a well-known car that was originally built and raced by Lee Chapman in the 1980's, and later by Tom Yeager during the 1990's. Comprehensively restored during the winter of 2006-2007 and only 7 races since that time. Every single component on the car was either refurbished to concours condition or replaced with new. The car is now fully sorted and is the fastest SVRA Group 3 or Group 8 car at most race meetings (it can run in either Group 3 or Group 8 depending on the weight of the car). As part of the restoration the frame was thoroughly crack-checked and all questionable tubes were replaced. A single-hoop rollbar was designed with safety in mind, and incorporates additional side impact protection on both sides of the cockpit which further enhances the strength of the chassis. Significant frame strengthening was also done during the restoration and it was then powdercoated before final assembly. At that time and a .100 aluminum floor was added along with .060 inner panels and all were both glued and riveted into place using aircraft grade hardware. If you are looking for THE BEST Super 7 currently being raced, this is the car for you.
History
Built into a vintage race car by Lee Chapman in the early 1980's (had been a street car prior to that time -- no SCCA history) and then raced very successfully by Lee. Subsequently purchased and raced by Tom Yeager. Years of development have gone into this car such that it is now the most highly developed, vintage prepared Lotus 7 anywhere. The car is 100% legal, and is accepted by all major vintage race groups.
Recent Competition History
7 poles in 7 starts since a comprehensive restoration. There is not a faster vintage prepared 1500 cc Lotus 7 anywhere. Has run 1:37 at Mid Ohio, 2:12 at Watkins Glen, 2:13 at VIR, 1:15 at Waterford Hills, and 2:43 at Road America.
Performance Data
Weight: 1075 lbs
Engine
Engine Builder: MWE
Type: pre-crossflow. Fully dry-sumped
Displacement: 1498cc
Horsepower: 150+ (dyno sheets available to serious
Induction: Twin Weber 40DCOE
Block: Ford AX casting
Crankshaft: Steel
Connecting Rods: Carillo
Pistons: JE
Valve Train: Titan roller
Clutch: 7.25" Tilton with single plate racing disc
Flywheel: Aluminum
Total Time: Approx 8
Tilton Super Starter
Fuel System
Fuel Cell
Manufacturer: ATL with aluminum container.
Age: Reblt / new foam 07'
Capacity: 5 gallon
Fuel Pump: Holley (new in 2008)
Oil/Water System
Radiator: Aluminum
Water Pump: Aluminum
Oil Cooler: Twin coolers
Electrical System
Ignition: Lucas Electronic
Transmission
Type: Leeson 4 speed Dog-Ring with annular clutch release system.
Gears: 4 Speed
Rebuilt during winter of 2007/2008
Rear End
Ratio: 3.9
Differential: Welded
Axles: 2 peice racing
Full floating with double bearings
Body
Construction: The car retains it's ORIGINAL aluminum skin throughout.
Color: It is now painted silver
Condition: concours to excellent condition
Chassis
Type: now with significant strengthening and reinforcments for racing.
Builder: Lotus
Material: All aluminum panels are both glued and riveted
Finish: Concours
Condition: Grey Powdercoat
Front Suspension: Stock (all nickel plated) with 5/8" sway bar. Lower trunions are adjustable for camber change
Rear Suspension: Gusseted rear axel housing with adjustable rear trailing links. Highly reinforced lower A-frames
Shocks: Leda Adjustable (rebuilt 2008) with built in droop limiters.
Brakes: Dual circuit brake system features adjustable brake bias bar
Wheels: 5.5" wide Panasport racing
Tires: 185 x 60 x 13 Hoosier Street TD
Interior
Material: Dash is covered in the same red vinyl as the seats.
Fire System: SPA fire system in the passenger's side footbox.
Guages: original Smiths
Condition: chronometric tach and original Smiths guages (oil temp, water temp, oil pressure)
Spares
Fiberglass nose
miscellaneous small "disposables" like brake pad, shoes, etc