Modern Vespa

After the scooter (2007 LXV 150) has been sitting a couple days, it doesn't start immediately and makes a strange sound when trying to turn over. Any idea why it's making the sound in the linked video? Thanks!

https://youtu.be/5BR-Yp25ELU

Starter bendix not expanding to mesh with the ring gear.

The starter motor spins #4 below, which upon spinning is supposed to expand axially, to mesh with the starter ring gear on the crankshaft. I'm thinking the bendix is dirty and does not expand to mesh....

Thanks for helping! Is this a difficult repair?

You will have to remove the transmission cover, clutch, belt, and variator to get at it. If you have never done it, figure a couple hours. There are a couple specialized tools that are helpful to remove the clutch and variator but some people just use impact wrenches. Personally I use the specialized tools for assembly, but the impact does great to remove everything.

I recently finally got around to attempting the repair. It started right up on the first attempt and continued to do so multiple times while parked in the garage. However, after cruising around for about an hour, I stopped to get gas. When I tried to start it back up, the bendix sounded like it wasn't engaging with anything at all It sounded like it was just spinning. Since the bendix is clean, do you have any idea what may be causing this? I plan on taking it apart again tomorrow and cleaning the bendix again, though it doesn't seem like it should be dirty after only an hour of riding. I'm just wondering if there's anything I should be looking for...

Also, I was told the flanged variator nut is a one-time use nut. Will a regular M12 flanged nut work? I noticed the one I installed last time had a built-in washer. Is that standard for a flanged nut or is that why the one used for the variator is special and can only be used once?


Thanks for any help!

I would check the battery.
Either put it on a tender overnight, and/or have it tested for max amps.

Thanks. I'll give that a try before taking it apart.

If I do end up taking it apart, I was told the flanged variator nut is a one-time use nut. Will a regular M12 flanged nut work? I noticed the old one I removed and the new one I installed had a built-in washers in the flange. Is that standard for a flanged nut or is that why the one used for the variator is special and can only be used once?

Tahnks again for the help!