Cat crossflow tank fit in a Lotus 7

[jbcollier]

Will the below tank fit in a Lotus Seven (S3)?

 

https://caterhamparts.co.uk/tanks/575-fuel-tank-carb-ford-and-vauxhall-engines-alloy.html?search_query=Fuel+tank&results=212

[MV8]

Why not use the "ask the expert" button for fitting and/or the tanks dimensions? There seems to be either an sv sized tank or a traditional 7 sized tank with port options for either in tank or external pumps.

 

Tanks can be welded/repaired after they've been in service.

[jbcollier]

Good idea, thanks

 

My tank was full of crap so I had it professionally dipped, steamed and lined.  All to no avail.  It's plugging (large) fuel filters in about a 100 miles.

Edited July 3, 2023 by jbcollier

[MV8]

I wonder what product they used to line it and if the fuel level sender is the source of the rust. I tried that before and it failed. I switched to an aluminum tank with a marine sender.

 

A local shop could build an aluminum tank using yours as a guide for identical fit. I assume you don't want to adapt the car to accept a poly tank to fit the space.

[7Westfield]

When the tank in my westy needed it's 4th (at least) crack repair, I found a premade one online that was good length and width wise, but too tall.

Since I needed a sloped bottom, I just cut the top off at an angle and put on a new "bottom"

Flipped it over and put sender and filler in new flat top

 

something like this     https://www.summitracing.com/parts/rci-2161a

Edited July 3, 2023 by 7Westfield

[jbcollier]

I could also build my own but plug and play is a lot easier in the busy summer season.  I've queried Cat on the dimensions and put an enquiry into Arch motors.

[IamScotticus]

@jbcollierWas there anti slosh foam in your tank?

[jbcollier]

No, it’s an original stock tank.  Some baffling but no foam.

[jbcollier]

Arch says a Caterham crossflow tank will fit.

[jbcollier]

Big shout out to Caterham.  After my enquires, they have added a photo with dimensions to to the listing.

[IamScotticus]

I wouldn't mind upgrading to a larger tank that will fit in the existing bottom bracket

[jbcollier]

I'm ordering one and will report back.

[jbcollier]

Well, it “fits”.

 

I have to redesign the axle brace as it extends too far into the tank’s space.  It was actually rubbing against the original tank and had worn through the 1/8” wall brace !!!!

 

 

Edited July 14, 2023 by jbcollier

[jbcollier]

The new tank requires a 3/4” spacer at the front edge to lift the tank slightly and significant bending of the fuel sender’s lever (make it shorter to reduce total travel).  It will all work though you couldn’t call it drop in.

[jbcollier]

Better

 

 

[jbcollier]

The sender just bolts up.  You have to make a thicker cork gasket as the thread inserts sit a little proud.  The tank itself is slightly lower but the rubber elbow still reaches.

Edited July 14, 2023 by jbcollier

[MoBoost]

What rubber or other isolating material did you use between the straps and the aluminum tank?

 

 

[jbcollier]

I cut strips out of some bulk rubber sheet I had to hand.  I also put rubber between the tank and chassis.

Edited July 15, 2023 by jbcollier