Modern Vespa

anybody have an extra 500 dipstick I can modify as a quick read stick so I don't have to wind it in and out when checking the oil level after changing the oil.

No reason that you shouldn't just measure the oil line on the tip of the stick after you have taken it to the full position by the standard procedure first.

You can use that as your guide in future.

This method may be a little less reliable than screwing it in because the winding action probably averages out a true level as it goes in. In particular you need to be sure your not just seeing oil that hasn't had time to drain clear of the hole.

You may want to check this out. Patrick aka OopsClunkThud designed a couple different oil funnels that have built in dipsticks. I had the first one listed for my 250. Worked great. I think the one that will work on the 400 and 500 is the second one listed. "Oil Funnel 500" you may want to verify that with Patrick though.

Go here http://www.oopsclunkthud.com/ and scroll down a bit. Not a bad price considering how handy it is.

High Sticky. I actually looked at that today but I cannot see how one would measure the oil level since it does not seem to have a way to be sure it to the proper depth.

It seems to be just 2 in 1: oil funnel and dip stick. The dip stick part should be exactly the same as the original, except for the screwing part.

Is really interesting...

EDIT: Didn't realize this was created by a member of this forum... awesome !!

When that ring, indicated by the red arrow, is flush with the top of the oil port the dipstick is at the correct depth.

When I used the other one for the 250 I would pour in the oil, remove the funnel and wipe the dipstick then reinsert to check the level. Much easier than doing all that screwing and unscrewing. I need to order one. Kind of forgot about it until this thread popped up.

even easier. just use your oem dip stick. the first time screw it all the way in like normal, look at the level you want to keep it at. Now wipe it clean and just put it in and don't screw it down. check the level, guess what the level never changed its just in a different spot on the dip stick. That is your new full mark now.

Common sence wins every time

My only problem with that method is my aging brain forgets where the new mark is. I would have to make a mark.

I just ordered one. He takes Pay Pal.

take a razor knife and make a scar mark

on the dipstick...

just the scooter dipstick, not your own.

Oh bad visual.

I always forget about that word... something like circus... circut... circum...

Must get that vision out of my mind No NO, not another bobit.

no not a full cut off, just a little slice across.

Ding Ding Ding, we have a winner!!!

http://www.oopsclunkthud.com/

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Oil Funnel 500. oops has this oil funnel for a 500 listed.


I ordered the funnel. They sent me a note saying they were making a 3d diagram. I thought they were making me a 3d picture of a funnel. I will get a real funnel. They actually have a process of manufacturing that is amazing!! Check them out even you do not need to purchase anything!

3D Printing - awesome stuff.

I just ordered up one of these spiffy funnels...

never knew of this item. bought the funnel and plastic muffler gasket case. It can be so easy to damage sitting in the garage parts bin.

So I bought both the engine oil and hub oil filler funnels / dipsticks. I have yet to try them out but they look like they will work well. Initial thoughts:

- The funnel end looks like it could be larger. Basically these just make it easier to ge the end of a larger funnel up to them.
- Since they are 3D printed the surfaces inside and out, are rough. They will hold oil, and thereby contaminants, after using them. They'll need good cleaning after use.
- The engine oil dipstick is reasonably smooth and has good markings. The hub oil dipstick (on the right in the photo) has numerous molded-in characters - both inset and proud - that will make wiping it off to read oil levels rather difficult. The level markings are not quickly distinguished.
- Cannot speak to their strength. Seems like the plastic is a bit brittle, but time and use will tell.

I think these will be assets in spite of first perceived concerns, and should make maintenance a bit easier. Smart idea whoever came up with them. I'll post further on them after trying them out.



Just noticed cat hair in the pic. Seems like it's EVERYWHERE this time of year... which would be a much greater concern if there wasn't a cat lurking in the house!



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