Lotus 2005 Elise, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 75 / 205

NOTICE: The use of wide throttle openings and/or high rpm
before the engine has reached normal running temperature will
result in premature wear, and should be avoided.
Idle Speed
Engine idle speed is controlled electronically by the engine
management computer, and is normally about 850 rpm. A
raised idle speed is required under certain operating conditions
including the engine warm up phase, when the increased speed
helps the catalytic converter to reach operating temperature, as
well as inhibiting engine stall. Idle speed will return to normal
automatically when the engine has warmed sufficiently.
Engine Break-In
Although the Elise powertrain is built to close tolerances
using modern technology, the progressive and sympathetic
breaking-in (or bedding-in) of a new engine and transmission
remains a major factor in attaining efficient operation with
smooth, durable and economic performance to last throughout
the life of the car.
NOTICE: Failure to comply with the following break-in provi-
sions could invalidate the terms of the car warranty:
It is important during the car’s early life to limit the workload on
the engine and thus control the heat generated within it, which is
primarily a function of throttle opening and rpm. However, being
too sympathetic on the car will not allow the piston rings to bed in
satisfactorily, so a balance of spirited and gentle use is required.
For the first 600 miles (1,000 km), use no more than moderate
throttle openings (about half of the available accelerator pedal
travel) and do not run the engine continuously at engine speeds
over 4,500 rpm. Occasional short bursts at wider throttle and
higher rpm will be beneficial, as will a constantly changing cruis-
ing speed and making full use of the gearbox. Do not allow the
engine to labour in too high a gear ratio, but change down and
let the engine operate in its natural power band.
When changing gear, use only a light touch on the gear lever.
Forcing the change will cause unnecessary wear on the system
components and result in higher shift efforts being required. Al-
low the brakes to bed-in by avoiding needless heavy braking for
the first 100 miles (160 km). Both gearchange and brake pedal
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