Modern Vespa

If you have a GTS with the rear fold-down rack you'll notice that there are several small rubber plugs that fill in holes in the bars. (I'm not talking about the three "bumpers" that keep the rack pieces from hitting each other.)

I recently had the rear rack powder-coated and had to remove those rubber plugs. Some survived, but most ripped when pulling them out of the holes. I assume they're in place to keep moisture from collecting inside the tubes. But considering that some water came out when I removed them, I don't know how good of a job they do. I'm in Florida near the ocean so everything is always wet anyway.

Should I replug those holes and what would make a good substitute for the original rubber inserts? They don't show up in the parts catalog. Should I use a sealant or silicone and be done with it?

I answered the question with a pm

i personally do not worry about them

as long as they are facing down

What did the pm say??? I could do with plugging mine....

IIRC and I'm thinking of the right holes, they're threaded, so I originally cut down some matched threaded screw head bolts (M8?) to keep these holds covered. I was mainly concerned about water getting into the bar and rusting. Then I found I could order the OEM part in the UK from AJ Sutton (VespaSpares), so I got a few when I ordered a few other spares...

They're shown as 'Saddle Handle Plug' on this page:
http://www.vespaspares.co.uk/genuineparts/2234/02.19/vespa%20gts300%20ie%20super/rear%20luggage%20rack?uid=0

The part number doesn't come up on the web page, but if you could get it you should be able to order them from any Piaggio dealer.

They're not rubber, they're plastic with a chrome effect finish.

Hope this helps

I know exactly what you're referring to and its not the rubber plugs I'm talking about. Suggested visiting caplugs website for samples.