1991 LOTUS ELAN User Comment / Complaint

When filled with gas, the fuel tank leaks from the left-hand side of the tank; leaking fuel is a fire hazard and gas odor in car is annoying. i suspect that the tank neck has cracked at its juction to the tank body as reported by other owners. i contacted lotus cars, who insisted that i take it to a dealer for inspection before any remedies may be considered. i have talked to other elan owners who have had the same problem, and have had their tanks replaced by lotus; i believe this problem is a defect in the tank manufacture and should be recalled for inspection and/or replacement by the manufacturer -- it is definetely a fire hazard. as there were only about 500 of these cars imported in the 1991 model year only, lotus is hesitant to admit its a defect; of the 500 cars, how many have reported this problem to you? thanks for your help. dan miller.