Modern Vespa

So I decided to try to go ahead with this project that I was whining about in my last post - "So, why would anyone do this"? I started going thru boxes of stuff and then took a good look at the frame body. It is fairly solid, but seems to me that the top of the neck is twisted some. Is there anyway to see if this is true or will it work as is?

To my eyes, the only part that's "twisted" is the very front, the area that rises vertically. I'd think it's good to go as is.

You can get a laser level that will show you if its strait. The level has a laser line that cross with another laser line. Great for around the house and shop, too.

https://www.amazon.com/Qooltek-Multipurpose-measure-Adjusted-Standard/dp/B00PQ4PJYC/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=laser+level&qid=1570407383&sr=8-5

Not an expert here...but if the legshield is a little off, it's no problem moving or bending back into shape. It would be most important to ensure the steering tube and center channel are all squared away.

Legshield looks wonky and I think that is causing a optical illusion that makes the steer tube appear crooked. I second the laser level option

Hey Tierney. Whether or not the legshield is crooked the important bit is that the steering tube is perpendicular to the engine mounts.
Mine was a bit twisted and had the tell-tale ripples behind the front mudguard.
I borrowed a laser, maybe you can ask around? It was fantastic to get an accurate measurement.

First I set it up on a table and made sure it was level through the engine mount holes.



First pass



Vertical rod at the rear to help align the centre rear with centre front



Tweaking - easier to twist the frame than I imagined!

Build a 5 cm high wooden template with the correct curve to slide from top to bottom; for the correct curvature you can take it from a equal Vespa using a cardboard shape.
Then with a lot of patience and a hammer with wooden and lead heads you can reshape; with the wooden head act on the parts with little correction and with that on lead on the others. I recommend that the head is wide and slightly rounded.
A wonderful job Ginch, congratulations.
I have been renovating motorcycles since 1981 (not scooters but I saw how other restorers do) and I understand something.

I just went through similar - and used the laser like Ginch.

See: How to cheat and get a barn find. (Page 10)

Thanks everyone , especially you Ginch, for all the suggestions. I should have time in the next week or so to check it out. Next up: welding and fabrication. Can't wait.

Hi, I just realised that I Did not get my frame straightened enough and now a nee floor is welded. Do I need to drill it out again? That would be painful
Can it damage the fork tube or how its attached by bending with a long bar like that? Hiw much force is needed. I can feel i flexing a bit but hesitated...

Thanks