Technical data

14
Starting the engine
WARNING!
Before starting the engine ENSURE you are familiar
with the procedures below. Catalytic converters are
easily damaged through improper use, particularly if
the wrong fuel is used or if an engine misfire occurs –
before starting the engine you should be aware of the
precautions detailed in the ‘Catalytic converter’ section.
Never start or leave the engine running in an
unventilated building – exhaust gases are poisonous
and contain carbon monoxide which can cause
unconsciousness and may even be fatal.
Starting the engine:
1) Check that the handbrake is on and that the gear
lever is in neutral.
2) Switch off all unnecessary electrical equipment.
3) Turn the ignition switch to position ‘II’ and release
the key as soon as the engine has started.
NOTE: For cars fitted with a push button start, turn the
ignition switch to position ‘II’ and press the red push
button and release the button as soon as the engine
starts.
WARNING!
DO NOT press the accelerator pedal while starting and
DO NOT operate the starter for more than 15 seconds
at a time. If the engine fails to start switch off and wait
for at least 10 seconds before trying again.
NOTE: When the battery is in a low state of charge,
depress the clutch before starting and hold it down until
the engine is running.
Starting in cold climates
In freezing conditions, fully depress the clutch pedal
while starting and hold it down until the engine is
running. Note that engine cranking times will increase
and that the battery charging light may take several
seconds to extinguish.
Warming up
In the interest of fuel economy, it is advisable to drive
the car soon after starting, remembering that harsh
acceleration or labouring the engine before the normal
operating temperature has been reached can damage
the engine.
Running-In
The engine, gearbox, brakes and tyres need time to
‘bed-in’ and adjust to the demands of everyday
motoring. During the first 500 miles (1,000 km) it is
essential that you drive with consideration for the
running-in process and heed the following advice:
 DO NOT allow the engine to exceed 4,000
rev/min in any gear.
 DO NOT operate at full throttle in any gear.
 DO NOT allow the engine to labour in any gear.
 AVOID heavy braking.
After the running-in distance has been completed,
engine speeds may be gradually increased.
Catalytic Converter
The exhaust system on your car incorporates a
catalytic converter, which converts poisonous exhaust
emissions from the engine into environmentally less
harmful gases, thereby reducing atmospheric pollution.
WARNING!
The catalytic converter can be easily damaged through
improper use, particularly if the wrong fuel is used. For
this reason, it is VERY IMPORTANT that you heed the
following precautions:
Filling up with fuel:
Use ONLY fuel recommended for your car (see
Technical Data).
Starting the engine:
WARNING!
DO NOT continue operating the starter if the engine
fails to start after a few attempts (unburnt fuel may be
drawn into the exhaust system, thereby damaging a
catalyst) – seek qualified assistance.
If a misfire is suspected when starting, DO NOT drive
the car or attempt to clear the misfire by pressing the
accelerator pedal. DO NOT attempt to push or tow
start the car. Instead, turn the ignition switch off
immediately and seek qualified assistance.
Driving the car:
Provided the engine has reached its normal operating
temperature, if a misfire is suspected or the car lacks
power while driving, it may be driven SLOWLY (at risk
of catalyst damage) to Caterham Cars for assistance.
Never
Allow the car to run out of fuel (the resultant misfire
could destroy a catalyst).
An engine burning excessive oil (blue smoke from the
exhaust), will progressively reduce catalyst efficiency.
Do not overload the engine.