Modern Vespa

If anyone has tried to replace the silent block, that massive plastic and rubber puck on the left side of the swingarm, you know what joy that can bring.

I decided to buy one of the Piaggio special tools and ordered it before last Christmas, hoping to have it by Spring.

Well, what a surprise, Piaggio was out of them.
So today I got the proforma for the next order we have coming in from Pontedera, and it's on the list. And it's about $200.
I'm going to use it a few times, that I am aware of right now, and then it will sit next to my special tool for the oil seal on the right side of the crankcase.

If anyone wants to use it, send me a PM. I will need a deposit for the value of the tool, and you will have to pay shipping both ways, but other than that, it's free, unless you break it.

That's a very generous offer. Bookmarked!

I used a bearing race install tool to replace mine, went real easy.
https://www.amazon.com/Bearing-Driver-Installer-Remover-Automotive/dp/B075YRD2NM/ref=asc_df_B075YRD2NM/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312064691975&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17331294688406558927&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007574&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-568351629742&psc=1

I've installed one with a device of my own making that looked like a Rube Goldberg machine, but it took a long time and didn't work with what I really want to install, which is the Malossi replacement silent blocks. They are about as hard as a hockey puck, and serve a similar purpose to the Clause bushings on the shocks. I'm not sure a bearing race press would work, and don't want to end up with that and the factory tool. On the other hand, if trying to put these things in breaks the factory tool, I now have another option.

For about $55 you can buy the silent block already mounted in its plate, from Vespa. Part number 600537. AF1Racing.com says they can get it for you.

These (GT200 is 599249) are still available believe it or not, glad I found the thread. Just ordered one after confirming with Ed at AF1. Well worth the $30 extra to get it pre pressed in since I don't have a vise or press..

One caveat, the unit I received doesn't have the hose clamps that are attached on the OEM bracket, so the hose just kind of hangs out there. Should be fine but it's something to consider if you have this issue, it might be worth pressing into your existing bracket afterall!