Lotus 2005 Elise, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 128 / 205

Wheels
Ensure that only original equipment, or Lotus approved wheel
and tire combinations are fitted. After the car has been used
on track, or in competition conditions, the wheels should be
removed and thoroughly inspected for damage.
WARNING:
After striking a pothole or kerb, the wheels should be
removed and the wheel and tire thoroughly inspected for
damage. Renew the wheel and/or tire if necessary. Safety
considerations should always be paramount and new parts
fitted in any cases of doubt.
Wheel Bolts
The wheel bolts used on the Elise are of a special design to
suit the small diameter fixing tunnels in the wheel centres. The
bolts have a 10 spline socket head, for which a special extension
tool is supplied with the car. A 17mm a/f deep socket and 1/2
inch square drive wrench should be applied to the extension tool,
with a tightening torque of 77 lbf.ft (105 Nm) required.
To protect against wheel theft, one of the four bolts securing
each wheel is key coded, and requires a corresponding coded
socket wrench and 1/2 inch square drive extension. Rotate the
coded socket until full engagement with the bolt head is ensured
and take care to maintain the extension tool perpendicular to
the wheel face before applying release torque.
NOTICE: It is not recommended to use hammer action air tools
on the coded bolts - use only manual tools.
Both the standard extension and coded socket tools are
stowed in the car tool kit, and should remain with the car at all
times to ensure that servicing may be performed. The key code
included in the tool kit should be recorded and kept safely with
the car documents, in case a replacement socket tool needs
to be ordered.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The wheels on your car were aligned and balanced carefully
during the manufacture of your car to give you the longest tire
life and best overall performance.
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