The Lotus Grand Tourers

Hello everybody, I have a 1985 Excel. When turning the ignition on nothing happens, no lights or anything useful. Immediately prior to this while attempting to start the engine on the key, some smoke came up from the console area. Does anyone have any ideas what caused this and to do next

Disconnect the battery before you go any further.
Pull the instrument binacle forward (only 4 screws). Helped if you push the Speedo cable forward from under the bonnet once the 4 screws are out.

You should now have a fair view of most of the wiring behind the dash, which sounds like it might have got hot. Look for anything burnt or melted.

You'll also be able to check most of the fuses, some of which likely blown.

Tony

MetBlue wrote: Mon May 25, 2026 14:05 Disconnect the battery before you go any further.
Pull the instrument binacle forward (only 4 screws). Helped if you push the Speedo cable forward from under the bonnet once the 4 screws are out.

You should now have a fair view of most of the wiring behind the dash, which sounds like it might have got hot. Look for anything burnt or melted.

You'll also be able to check most of the fuses, some of which likely blown.

Tony

I'd start with the fuses. If any are blown the wiring diagram will give directions.
To remove the instrument panel you have to remove the covers around the steering column (5 screws) But I'd start with pulling the steering wheel, makes everything much easier. And I can't find enough speedo cable to connect it from the top, I have to fiddle with the instrument panel in place from below.

Good chance the ignition switch went up in smoke, it carries a lot of current, no fuses and is made by Lucas. It is held in place with a tiny screw on the lock barrel

I would check the main power stud.